Moving to Ponyvilleby Rainbow_FlashChaptersThe Train RidePinkie and the PartyMeeting the ProtegeBathtime...Yuck!Sugarcube Corner and the OrchardLearning to LiveThe Train RideMy wings were flapping wildly, but my saddlebags weighed me down to earth. My wing muscles were aching and throbbing with every flap. The rain stung my eyes, and my hooves were lucky that they didn't slip. My hooves were coated with mud as I ran towards the train station. I saw several unicorns and earth ponies entering the train, their giggles and laughs echoing across the barren, muddy field. Close behind me a strong, caramel-colored stallion towed my small wagon full of things- he seemed to barely break a sweat as he galloped behind me. I heard the train's whistle blow twice and I stomped on the muddy ground even harder. Boy, I didn't expect moving to be so hard! It takes forever to pack, forever to get a moving pony, and forever to get to the train station. WHY, Celestia, WHY couldn't I have gotten a unicorn moving pony?! The wooden building neared, and I sighed with relief. Of course, then the faint spark of hope dimmed. The station master called out, "All aboard for Ponyville!" Leaping, I slid on a mud puddle and next to the station panting for breath. I took deep breaths while crawling onto my hooves and gasped, "Wait!" Flashing a ticket, I loaded my wagon of things onto the train. Before I stepped in, the station pony "a-hemed" and pointed at my muddy yellow hooves and belly. Sheepishly, I washed off my hooves in a nearby puddle of rain and rubbed the rest of the mud off at a raincloud. I zipped inside the doorway behind the stationmaster. Soon I heard two whistles screech, and we were chugging along. I walked down the aisle, choosing a plush green seat down at the back and waited. The window was dark and all around the train was muddy grass and small trees. It made me feel gloomy just seeing it. Buuuut I'm really excited now! I was moving to Ponyville! Now I can finally talk with Raindrops whenever I want, and I've heard weather in Ponyville is great too. They also have a great big library there, the Golden Oaks Library, and nearby is a huge apple orchard. Raindrops told me about it one day in a letter, seeing all the blotches of red underneath her and a small orange blur of a pony. She described it amazingly, made me wish I had been flying over it. Suddenly I was drawn to the window, and the terrain wasn't muddy anymore. Of course, it was still raining but everything seemed....brighter somehow. The trees were a bit more frequent, and they grew larger than the ones back at Dodge Junction. I shuffled through one of my heavy saddlebags and found a picture of me at Flight Camp. Filly-me had just beaten the agility course and earned a cutie mark- one blue lightning bolt. It made me smile seeing it- oh, the memories! My tiny hummingbird wings were flapping as hard as they could, straining my muscles. I had already finished the cloud bank, where I flew through a misty path. I had my hooves held forward and my head held high, and soon 5 cumulus cloud poles neared. I quickly zipped side to side, spinning around each pole once. I thought I must've been the best filly flying on that agility course ever! I finished with the poles and now one solitary hoop was ahead- the last obstacle. I squinted my eyes and flew as fast as could, hoping to reach it before the 5 minute mark. My wings were quickly slowing down, but I used a small drifting tuft of cloud to push myself off to keep momentum. It worked. I won it, with a time of 4:09- amazing for many fillies in this course. I got a lovely medal, but the best prize was my cutie mark. I had been flying with glee. "Ponyville Station up ahead!" My eyes jerked back from sleep and I looked for my picture. I stood up so quickly, I fell down because of a bump on the rails. My head on the ground, I looked under my seat and found the picture sitting there. Grabbing it, I stuffed it inside my saddlebag and loaded them on my back. Won't be long now.... Stepping outside onto the bustling train station was a bad idea. Ok, a really bad idea. Ponies shoved to get towards a friend or parent and I found myself pushed around the crowd, like a game of tug-o-war. Colors flashed everywhere and lucky for me, none of them were neon. My eyes would explode if they even glimpsed a neon mane, or a saddlebag, just no neon colors. The ponies were slightly clearing up so I took advantage of this opportunity and ran off the station. "Phew. That was close. I wonder where Raindrops is, she promised to meet me at the station." Trotting back towards the now thinning crowd, I spied for my BPP. BPP means "Best Pony Pals" which is a phrase Raindrops and I came up with. Very soon I heard a voice call out. "Flash! Oh my Celestia, it is so good to see you!" Raindrops said excitedly. I pranced up to her, which was quite hard because of the weight on my back, and embraced her. "Hey Rainy! It's good to see you too. So, do you know where my house is? Uh, lets see here, its 'Cloud Drive.'" Raindrops quickly beckoned me forward, and I followed her through a maze of streets. We arrived at a giant tree house, and we passed it and cantered to a house nearby. The house was a pale grey, with a beautifully made straw roof. Or whatever that is- it definitely looks like straw. Several bulky ponies stood in front, and were dropping some boxes inside for the owner. "So Flash, how do you like your new house?" Rainy says, smiling goofily. I trot up to it as the ponies leave, and call out to Raindrops. "Well, I love it so far. Meet me here in an hour and a half for a tour, and don't forget!" Rainy tends to forget things a lot, so I remind her as much as possible. The yellow pegasus waves, and flies off to her home several streets away. I take a deep breath, and trot through the door. The first thing I see is a basic living room, a place to hang out with my friends. I didn't sit and chat with my friends though; I raced them, and did contests. The contests were especially fun since Raindrops was almost my equal. Anyway, there wasn't much else except for a small kitchen and dining area. Walking up the stairs, I go through a blue door and see a bland room with a bed. Two boxes were in there, both labeled: "My Room." I dropped my saddlebags on the floor, and rummaged through one box. I pulled out some pink covers with my blue lightning bolt on them. Spreading it across my bed, I unloaded more items like some silver and bronze medals and one gold trophy. Soon my room was fully customized and to my liking. I had unpacked my saddlebags and there were only a few other boxes to unload. A tapping from downstairs startled me, and I zoomed down. Raindrops is here! I opened the door and said, "Rainy! You remembered!" There she was, cyan mane and all. I hugged her, and she pulled out a map from a saddlebag. "Map of Ponyville," she explained quickly. We stood there and pointed out huge landmarks, like Sugarcube Corner and Carousel Boutique. Raindrops and I decided to go to the Boutique first to get me a dress for special occasions. Raindrops said we could also get a necklace for each of us. "Okay, I've got my bits Rainy. Lets fly!" We did a mock salute at each other and zoomed upwards, Raindrops telling me about some other ponies she knew. Her other best friend, apparently, was a unicorn named Colgate. She said they couldn't hang out often because they lived on the opposite end of town from each other. Soon, a prissy looking building appeared in the distance and I snorted. That was way too fancy for a tom-boy like me to handle. Soon a blue pony was streaking our way and my agility training kicked in. "Out of the way!" I yelled, expertly dodging up and out of the way of the incoming missile. The pony didn't stop to say sorry, but luckily we weren't hit. Raindrops rolled her eyes. "She does this a lot. Rainbow Dash is always out and about." So we steered down for a landing in front of the building, and I gagged at Raindrops. She said it isn't that bad, but it looked like it belonged in Canterlot! We walked through the door, a ringing sound filling the shop. Dresses and mannequins were everywhere and a stylish white unicorn turned towards us. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique! Today I'm having a sale on some of my best designs." A sale... That was good, because I don't have many bits. She led us to a rack of dresses, showing us which ones would look "lovely" on us. I decided on a blue dress, which was very light (in both meanings). Raindrops chose a pink dress that flowed smoothly over the ground. We made our purchases and didn't bother about the necklaces. I was being choked with fanciness in there! I told Raindrops to call off the tour. I didn't want to see anything else like...that. I waved goodbye to Raindrops through my window and fell onto the couch. What a day. Who knows what would happen tomorrow? I bet it has something to do with a certain pink pony I was told about..... Author's Note Okay, this is my first story on FimFiction and I don't want people to shoot this down. I tried my very best, and lucky for you I'm a spelling freak. Hope you enjoyed the story! :D Pinkie and the PartyThe morning light shined brightly into my eyes, and I groaned loudly. Sure I was active, but active ponies need rest to be their best! Soon, though, I slide out of bed and stumble towards the stairs. I took a large step, and tumbled down a few steps before flying up- and hitting the ceiling. After sitting still for a few minutes, clutching my head, I walked towards the kitchen. I yawn and rub an eye with a hoof. I pick out my favorite Wonderbolts mug and get out some ingredients for coffee. After a few mistakes and false starts, the coffee was brewing and I relaxed on the couch. For a second. Then I went back to the coffee, deemed it worthy to be sipped, and gulped it down. My first reaction was hot, hot, hot! But it soon changed to energy and I became wide awake. I brushed my hoof through my blue-green mane, said hoof getting stopped numerously by tangles. Time to brush my mane. I thought. Usually my tail is fine, but I do brush it occasionally. Upstairs, I brushed through my mane, becoming well acquainted with battling tangles with a bristly sword. As soon as my mane was silky smooth, I looked in the mirror. The pink streak in my mane was faded, so I searched for my mane dye. It took a long time to find it, but it was worth it. I loved my pink streak; streaks are so cool! As I carefully applied the dye, the pink stripe in my mane became brighter and brighter, eventually becoming so bold it could've been neon. If it was neon though, I would grimace and wash it out. My mane was done, sure, but here came the hardest part- doing my tail. Let me tell you, reaching your tail is near impossible. Mostly I have a friend help, but at this early in the morning? I shouldn't bother any pony! I circled for what felt like hours until stomping my hoof and changing tactics. I squeezed some due and my hoof and smeared a streak on my tail. "There. Problem over, dilemma avoided." I sighed and thought about what to do now. I hadn't gotten any books to read yet, but the library must be closed right now. In fact, it's so early I bet only I'm awake. Then I considered that fact, and that I want to stretch my wings. Not like this morning, I mean! The thought almost excites me, though- being the only one awake in Ponyville! What if some pony woke up to see my flying by their window, dodging signs and anything in my way? They'd be amazed! Somepony up this early, though? Not a chance on a Saturday like today. Guess my fantasy just now could be reality! I quickly decided to use my goggles to keep my vision sharp. I scanned the long dirt road. I'd have to swerve towards the fringes of the street, but nothing a tough pony like me couldn't handle! Maybe I could dodge some carts and barrels- there are tons of those on the street corners! Flipping my goggles on, I splayed out my wings and zipped out onto the street, eager and awake. Maybe it was the thrill of practicing in a new town, but I tried a few challenging stunts. Not as amazing as a sonic rainboom, mind you, but challenging and amazing feats for me. I even did a few flips to make my stunts more exciting. Okay, okay, no pony was watching but imagining an audience makes me do so much better. I'm not a scaredy pony, y'hear? The only thing that really frightened me was the Nightmare Moon incident, because if it was dark no pony could see my tricks and I can't do amazing tricks if there isn't an light either. I could use candles but it'd still be hard to.. Forget it. Maybe I'm a teeny, tiny bit afraid of eternal night, but I am NOT scaredy pony. Never since then. I returned to my house with pride, but less pride than normal because I got lost on the way home. I went left instead of right on Mane Street. My muscles were flexed and ready for more training later today, except right now I needed a power nap and some brunch. As I approached the door to my house I saw that my lights were off. Huh, I don't remember turning them off. Oh well, who cares? I reached for the doorknob and slowly turned it; I just wasn't good with them. The door opened and I stepped inside. "SURPRIIIISE!" The lights flashed on and a loud voice drilled into my head. I jumped in surprise. A pink pony, and dozens of other ponies crowded my house and started partying and chatting.. Well, this could have been worse. The pink pony hopped up to me with a big smile. She started talking at the speed of light andI quickly tried to make sense of it all. "HiIfoundoutyouarenewheresoIthrewthispartyanddoyoulikeit?" Apparently she saw me at the train station yesterday, and planned this party while I was at the Boutique. She set it up when I was out practicing. In my mind, I felt creeped out that she saw when I left my house at a time I knew I was the only pony out. Soon, the pony named 'Pinkie Pie' talked slower and she said, "Are we best friends forever? Pinkie Promise?" Her eyes widened and so did her smile. To be honest, it was a little creepy. I answered as best I could, but she had to show me how to do a Pinkie Promise. I was trotting around the party, when I came to the table. A large, delicious looking, chocolate cake rested on a plate. I zoned out and drooled a little. How did she know? Chocolate cake is my favorite kind of cake! No sprinkles, just smooth, delicious icing and rich, fluffy cake. Mmmm. Pinkie appeared in front of me. "Try some! I made it myself so it's extra-duper special!" I reached for a knife and slowly cut through the oozing chocolate icing and then I sliced through dark, fluffy cake. In the corner of my eye, Raindrops was smiling and rolling her eyes. Pinkie was super excited; she really wanted me to try the cake. Now I took a slow bite out of the cake, and my eyes opened wide and my mouth was smiling and open. "Pinkie, this is delicious! This," I say each word between bites, "is the best cake I've ever had! Thanks so much!" I reached out and hugged the pony I had before deemed creepy. She hugged with the force of a bear! Afterwards she was grinning happily and hopped away with a small "your welcome." I finished my slice of cake and stood there, crumbs slipping through my mouth. A few ponies walked up, introduced themselves, and said, "Welcome to Ponyville!" One of the ponies was the oh-so-famous magic protégé Twilight Sparkle. I had read all about her in my old town. My old town... But with my mouth full, all I said was, "Try some cake." Now I feel embarrassed. She levitated a slice onto a plate and walked off. She must've rolled her eyes. I guess this party isn't so bad after all, though. Raindrops and I found Colgate here, and Colgate became my second BPP. Turns out she admired pegasi and their cloud magic. And she loved meeting Raindrops' friends! I knew we weren't going to meet a lot, but I should still try right? I wandered about the party, eventually seeing an odd stallion. He had a spiky brown mane and tail. The mysterious stallion always disappeared before I could talk to him. Huh. The time passed quickly, and soon my clock struck 1:00 P.M. A few minutes after some ponies left, I told Pinkie I was partied out. Saying bye to Pinkie and a some other guests, I found a present sitting on the counter. A note read, "Do not open until the 21st." Who left this here? Maybe Raindrops? Or Colgate, or maybe Twilight! What was the importance of that day? That was a week away, anyways, so I don't have to worry too hard. As I slipped under the covers of my warm and inviting bed, I decided what I would do tomorrow. Tomorrow I was going to the library to talk more with this magical protege. Author's Note The mysterious stallion is a brown pony, and doesn't play any role in the story. Guess who he is for fun. Meeting the ProtegeMy eyelids fly open, and I lick my lips. Huh? Where’d my cake go? Sadly, I realize it was only a dream. I flip off the covers, catapulting them onto the ground, and started about my morning business. Leaping down the smooth stairs, I prepared myself some chocolate cake from yesterday. I had thrown it in the fridge to keep it cool. I open up the container I put the cake in, and cut a sickingly sweet slice. Taking a bite, chomping through the icing and fluffy cake, my taste buds cheer and jump. Boy, was that good cake! I finished the slice in 10 seconds flat after the first bite. Reaching for the knife to cut more, I suddenly slap my hoof. One slice a day, and no more, brain. Got it? I want that cake to last. Gazing at the clock, I realize it is 10:28 A.M. "The library should be open now. Let's see how magical this pony is." Opening the door, I walked outside and saw dark clouds on the horizon. Not good. I considered different plans in my mind- like should I stroll in and act superior? Or be friendly but quiet? My hooves led me towards the library and I wondered if I should knock. This is a home and a library isn't it? Bringing my hoof to the door, I knock three times. Tap, tap, tap. My mind had decided that I should be polite. I heard a loud thud after I knocked, and pattering hooves. "One second!" Twilight yelled. At least, I assumed that was Twilight. Soon the door opened to reveal a purple unicorn. She seemed to have brushed her mane in a hurry, and her eyelids dragged down a little. "Hi, I'm Flash. Remember me? From the party last night?" I put on a smile. This was not what I expected. Books everywhere, and a little dragon putting them away. Twilight saw me staring at the dragon, and swiftly introduced me. "Spike! We have a visitor. So this is Spike, my assistant, and Spike this is Flash, our new neighbor." I smiled and waved a hoof at him. He seemed genuinely friendly and not a fire-breathing, roaring dragon. Spike waved and smiled, then went back to work. "So anyways, Flash, why are you here? Do you need a book?" Twilight asked. My plans had shattered in my mind, and because of my messy mind, I quickly go with Plan B. "Yes, I was looking for a new book to read. Something to keep me busy when I can't sleep." I lied. I always fall asleep, and I always sleep soundly. Twilight invited me in, and I looked about the shelves for something even remotely interesting. I pulled one out of a shelf and it read: Advanced Unicorn Magic. Twilight grabs it in her purple light and puts it away. She grins sheepishly. "Sorry, I have a ton of magic books here. Look over on that shelf. My friend Rainbow Dash..." I stop listening to her and fly over to the shelf. All of the books there are labeled as adventure books, so I randomly pick one of its perch. Daring Do and the Griffon's Goblet sounds interesting. I zoom over to Twilight to check the book out. Before I leave, I apologize, "Sorry if I distracted you from studying." Twilight just says it was really no problem, but I don't believe her. She seems to be a study queen! After that, I walk outside only to realize it's raining. My house is across the street, across the pools of mud, across the puddle. I feel my coat and shiver. That'll take a while to clean out. I tuck the book under my wing. I start to edge across the street, as my feathers aren't waterproof, only to feel no rain. Cool! I trot faster, and see a magical aura protecting me from the rain. I look back at the library and grin. At least she isn't mean or ignorant. I start to move faster across the mud so I don't waste time standing around and wasting her magic. That wouldn't be neighborly, and in my old town I was the most neighborly pony you'd ever meet. I saw mud splash endlessly onto the aura, and I grimace. I hope she doesn't see that! I stand on the doorstep to my home, and then think about our short conversation. And I face hoof. I didn't even talk to her about magic, like I wanted to, to know more about her. I mean, what does she learn all day? She must've run out of books to learn magic from by now. I shake off as much mud as I can and step inside my warm house. I throw the book on the table, and soar upstairs, mud dripping to the floor anyway. Time for a bath, I think. Yuck! Author's Note I am not proud of this chapter, so really sorry guys. Bathtime...Yuck!I cautiously creeped towards the door, standing straight and immovable. I slowly reached out a hoof, and then...poke. The door groaned, and moved backwards a bit. I edged along the wood, the floorboards squeaking in protest. Mud splattered the ground around me, and I winced, thinking of what I'd have to clean up later. And then I imagined having to take another bath. That thought sent chills down my spine. I walked through the door and looked around. It was fairly simple; only a sink, mirror and tub. A few towel hooks lined the wall, too. I sighed and jumped into the tub to not drip anymore mud. I wish I hadn't splashed mud everywhere when I ran; I distinctly remember it staining the glowing pink aura of magic, until it faded off the surface. Only to be splashed again. I heard a gurgling sound; it was the mud going down the drain. Suddenly I remembered a thought I had a day or two ago, when I was thinking back to the last Summer Sun Celebration they had had in Ponyville. I remember that one sentence I had thought, drifting away my fears. I am not a scaredy pony. Courage blocked my river of doubt like a beaver dam, not allowing a single doubt through. I twisted the shiny silver knob, the clear liquid gushing out in a large waterfall, never pausing. Then I jumped up, hitting my skull on the shower head, and then softly caressing my head with a hoof. The faucet streamed cold water down, and it reached my hooves- cold as the arctic where the Crystal Empire was. I really should check the labels- WAY too cold for my taste. Now branches of courage were falling off the dam, letting drops of doubt through. The silver knob squeaked after I turned it again to stop the frosty water, laughing at my failure to notice the large, blue 'C' on its top. I reached my front hooves towards each silver crystal and wobbled slightly, until I suddenly twisted each knob. Mild water cascaded down with a plunk, and I eased into relaxation, starting to slide down into the rapidly rising water. It numbed my body, all my limbs slowly falling into a deep slumber. When my head lowered into the water I snorted loudly and water then whipped me in the face, as I just slammed my hoof against the smooth mirror of water. I quickly twisted each knob to its original position, and my bath doubts came back- why couldn't I just fly in the rain, and let it wash off? But no, I can't fly in rain. Too hard. Maybe I could get some sponges, and sponge it off? Nah, I don't have sponges. I quickly thought up ideas, and then would shoot them down. My legs started to get tired and creaky from standing up for so long today. In fact, it was almost 11:00 A.M. now, and Rainy was going to come soon for the rest of my tour! Now I set my decision in stone- I have to do this, and do this quick. I plunked my flank into the water and reached for a slippery bar of soap. I pulled off a balancing act- rubbing it on my body and then when I dropped it I would balance it on my hoof again and repeat. I washed around each of my streaks, hoping not too much of it would fade. My aqua mane was glistening with soap bubbles, and I started to drain the bath of horrors. My wings flared open and closed, trying to shake off all the heavy beads of water. Honestly, my wings looked quite pretty when beads of water were laced through the feathers. But I couldn't fly then. I reached out for a towel and rubbed it on my wings, and soon I dropped the rough purple towel. My feathers were fluffed out and it looked hysterical! I giggled to myself and proceeded to dry myself.. I glanced at clock- it read "10:59." And that's when I lost it. I quickly surveyed myself in the mirror- wet mane, fluffy wings with an equally fluffy tail, and two worried pink eyes. I glanced out the window, and sure enough some ponies were out there. Bon Bon, Berry Punch, the brown pony from my party- oddly he was galloping somewhere- and Lemon Hearts. Luckily, no Raindrops though. The yellow unicorn noticed me and waved. I smiled shyly and waved back. I ducked back inside and started to smooth my ruffled tail. Ugh, what a nuisance. Soon my tail was smooth, and only an occasional strand stuck up. My mane just dried and it was driving my CRAZY how it poofed up and away from my hooves. A loud bang startled me. It repeated, again and again. I flew downstairs and called out to the door. "Who is it? Is it you Rainy?" I nervously asked. I looked out the peephole and as I did the mare- I could tell by the voice- replied. "Nope, it's just me! I got a letter for you from..." The mailmare paused and I could hear her shuffle with a piece of parchment. "A Ms. Minuette Colgate?" I gawked at the wood. She sent me a letter! We're going to stay best pony pals forever! I squeaked to myself and bounced on my hooves until the mare called out again. "Are you gonna take the letter Ms?" I stopped and then thought. Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to let the pony see my mane like this. Besides, the mailmare was very trustworthy. I reached out and opened the door, smiling awkwardly when the mailmare looked at me. Her crossed golden eyes just blinked and a gray hoof passed me the letter. The pegasus said "Have a nice day" and then zipped off to deliver more mail to the citizens. That was a focused pony. I slammed the door, remembering my letter and placed it on a table. Mane first, letter later. I zoomed upstairs and grabbed a brush in my muzzle. Time to tame my mane. I managed to get my bangs curled over onto my forehead like it usually is, except it was slightly nicer and fancier because I was going out, in fact it almost looked like Rainy's mane. I frowned. She was coming, and she would reach out her hoof and knock on the door any minute now! I started working on the back of my neck, smoothing it down but not breaking tangles. I sighed and stopped brushing. My mouth was tired of holding the brush, and my teeth ached and felt almost numb from grasping it so long. A familiar knock startled me- which soon was replaced by joy. Tap, tap tap, tap. That meant it was important, so I leaped the stairs. I landed with a thud- my hooves collapsed beneath me from the impact. Raindrops voice pierced through the door, asking me what that was. Smoothing my unfinished mane with a hoof, I put on a smile and opened the door. Author's Note Sorry for never updating! I had a blizzard over the weekend and I didn't have power for days. Anyways, happy Hearts and Hooves everypony! Sugarcube Corner and the Orchard"Hi Rainy. Where- Where are we going today?" I tried not to sound flustered, and did the best smile I could muster. Raindrops started to answer, but my eyes strayed up to her mane. It was dripping, wetter than usual, and overall- messy! My lips were squirming, trying to open up and laugh. I made sure they didn't though, and Raindrops had stopped talking- but I didn't notice. I felt like I was in a battle between laughing and keeping my mouth shut. My eyes finally moved back to her aqua ones, and they were staring at me- VERY sternly. I opened my mouth for a gulp of air and prepared to say I'm sorry- "Ahahahahaha!" She- she was laughing? Why? I was staring at her- which is rather impolite- and I wasn't listening to her, but she was LAUGHING? You have GOT to be serious. "Yeah, yeah, my mane is a mess. I had to help clear some of the clouds by the orchard place- Apple Fields or something- and Cloud Chaser accidentally kicked a cloud above me and 'rained on my parade.' Plus, I had to fly over here in some real strong wind which messed up my mane. See? Perfectly logical explanation!" Raindrops said, imitating what the purple unicorn would probably say. We giggled at that, and started a slow pace towards the gingerbread house. Raindrops hovered above the ground next to me, and was telling me about her favorite cookies that she buys from there. Our conversation soon stopped, and we trotted in silence. "So, who owns Sugarcube Corner? Have you told me about him or her before?" I said, trying to strike up a casual conversation. Raindrops grinned, and, quoting a character from her favorite SCI-Fi show, said, "Spoilers" with a huge grin. I sighed, rolling my eyes, and thought up a lively way to have fun- in my favorite way! Turning to the yellow Pegasus, I said, "Race y-" I was tackled, and I fell into a puddle. My mane was now drenched like Rainy's mane, and I turned to see who assaulted me. It was not what I imagined. A pink missile. She was bouncing, smiling wide as a mile, and looked at me with blue eyes that screamed "be happy!" I stood up, and looked at her closely. Pinkie Pie was slightly sweating, when I looked closely, and seemed to have ran a marathon to get here. I groaned in my head. Why the hyper one? Why now? "HiRaindropsandFlashowareyouI'mfinewhataboutyou?" I staggered to my hooves and stammered out a random response, not completely heaing what she had said. "Uh, yes?" Pinkie burst out laughing, and looked at me happily. "Silly Flash! I didn't ask a yes or no question! I asked, 'How are you.'" Pinkie started giggling again, bouncing along with us like what just happened had been the most normal thing in the world. I giggled with her, because I hadn't been listening and said a funny response. I would've laughed at a pony who did that! "Pinkie, how- why did you tackle me? And why are you following us to that sweet shop, uh, Sugarcube Sweets?" I asked, wracking my brain to find the name of that shop. All the file cabinets of information were in terrible disarray, and mini-mes ran around trying to find that information. "Uh, Flash? I kinda forgot to tell you... Pinkie works at 'Sugarcube Sweets.'" Raindrops said, scuffing the ground with a hoof. Pinkie smiled and pulled a cupcake out from nowhere. "Here! A cupcake will cheer you up! And it's Sugarcube Corner Flashy!" Ugh. That is the worst nickname I have ever been given. Her smile certainly makes me happy, though, and I wish I could have a cupcake too... "You can have a cupcake! Just ask, silly mcpony pants!" Pinkie said, shoving a cupcake on my suddenly outstretched hoof. Pinkie continued bouncing along, and I thought over what just happened. Pinkie can read minds and pull out cupcakes from nowhere. Pinkie works at Sugarcube Corner - Yes that's the name!- and likes making ponies happy. I am writing a list in my head about something I shouldn't care about, much less make a mental list about. I sighed to myself, and with my eyes closed, crashed into something. My nostrils exploded. Delicious, sweet gingerbread! Creamy vanilla icing! Cupcakes! Ponies were loudly chatting away inside, and I opened my eyes and saw a small line going out the door. Wow, is this the only sweet shop in town? "Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, the most amazingly amazing sweetshop in all of Equestria!" Pinkie did a split and outstretched her front hooves. Her smile was getting very, very annoying. And very, very big. "Do you want another cupcake, or maybe some.." While Pinkie droned on and on about what I might want, I fluttered inside to get a menu. Rainy followed me, with Pinkie hopping behind her. I shared a nervous glance at my PFF because Pinkie still hadn't stopped talking. "...or a milkshake! Hey guys, what're you doing under the menu? You're supposed to read it, not sleep under it!" Pinkie said, giggling and snorting as I pointed my hoof at an apple-based cupcake. Raindrops ordered too, and the obnoxious party pony raced into the kitchen. A blue pony with a pink, frosting-styled mane trotted up to my and said, "Sorry, she always hounds newcomers. Would you like a drink with your cupcake, hun?" I merely shook my head. Pinkie and the earth pony exchanged places, and I started munching my cupcake. I didn't realize that apple cupcakes are horrible until I registered what I just ate. "Hey Flashy! That was Mrs. Cake, one of my bosseseses! I hope you like yo- hey, are you alright, best friend?" I was coughing out my cupcake and Raindrops was patting me, whispering questions like "are you alright" and "shh" noises. I hate when Raindrops gets all motherly on me; it ruins the new image I wanted to make for myself. In my old town I was considered a coward. Pinkie Pie merely gasped and ran to the kitchen, coming out with a fresh, strawberry cupcake. I was groaning, forgetting about the annoyance that was Pinkie Pie. I swiped the cupcake and nibbled as much as I could.Pinkie was staring intently at me, and I cracked a weak smile. "That f-feels better. Thanks a ton, Pinkie." I said, and with each word I gained more strength. "Just, next time, can you remember to not give me any apple cupcakes?" Pinkie grinned widely and nodded her head a ton. She pranced back to the kitchen, and ponies stopped staring at what was happening. I looked at Raindrops and muttered, asking if we could leave and do something relaxing. I had a large head-ache from listening to Pinkie today. I needed some relaxing time where she couldn't bug us. Raindrops and I soared out and I unknowingly was following her. Lost in thoughts, I watched the landscape below me change from small town to large orchard. I watched how the red dots would suddenly disappear, and blurs of ponies walking around the trees. I sighed dreamily. "So, you like the view buddy? It's about the most relaxing thing in the world, watching the Apples work." Raindrops called out from miles away. I barely heard the echo of her voice, and nodded lightly. It was so... organized, how they worked. And they didn't miss a beat! Kick tree, move baskets, kick tree, move baskets... It was like music, how they stayed on beat and did the same thing over and over. Raindrops and I soared over the orchard for hours, until I said I was going to go home. I got so relaxed by watching that and chatting with my friend who sounded a million miles away. I opened the door to my house, trotted lazily up the stairs, and fell into my bed. Today was very annoying at first, but it became the best day in Ponyville so far. I thought about the orchard and started to drift into sleep... Author's Note I have been the worst author ever by ignoring this site. Boo me. Learning to LiveI woke up in the morning to a knock at the door. I pushed off the covers and jumped off my bed, stretching my whole body. Walking sluggishly, I dragged my hooves down the stairs. Grumbling, I opened the door and opened it, only to see a pink blur racing past me. She bounced everywhere, and I groaned. She admired everything in my house- the paintings, the colors, everything! I dragged my hooves to the kitchen, and started brewing a coffee to wake me up. As I did my new morning routine, Pinkie asked me all about what I was doing and why. As if I was ready to answer anything now of all times! "Will...answer.... need coffee now...." I groaned, watching the brewing coffee intently. Even though I was a major athlete- er, obstacle racer?- I had a hard time getting up in the morning. I mean, how was I expected to do that after hours of training before dusk? The coffee was ready and I grabbed it quickly. "Hey, why d'you need coffee? Some cupcakes would be much better, and so would apples, chocolate milk, sprinkles, whip cream, cherries, cakes..." Pinkie Pie droned on and on as I gulped down the scalding elixir. It might be a tad bit bad, but it did the trick. As Pinkie annoyingly bounced beside me as I drank, some energy flowed through my body. I turned to her and sighed. "Why are you...hm.... 'visiting' me today? I am not a morning pony, Pinkie Pie." I said, loosely throwing out words. Of course, I didn't want to offend her. But hopefully today she won't try and push her luck. "Because I have to make up for yesterday! You forgive me, right?" She said, smiling even wider when I begrudgingly nodded. I have to get away from her fast- but Raindrops will be coming later, so I shouldn't go where I can't keep track of time... I dashed with newfound energy and grabbed a sticky note from a drawer. I also got a pencil and wrote out a note to put on my door for Rainy. "'If I'm not here, go to orchard." I said, smiling. That was taken care of, now I can ditch this pony. Although, I still don't wanna hurt her feelings. I'll ditch her later, I guess. "Um, I have to eat breakfast. But since you're here, I thought we should go to a café or something. Want to go?" I asked nervously. Pinkie stopped her bouncing mid-air, and nodded vigorously. She then reached over and pulled me in the tightest hug, well, ever! "This is going to be the start of a great friendship, Flashy Dash!" She smiled and started dragging me out onto the street. By now Pinkie had dragged me across town, towards the farm and the apple orchard. I kept saying we passed all the cafés already, but she said there was still one. I kept staring at her, because I checked a complete map of Ponyville and we had passed every café. I don't get why she was doing this, but my stomach by punching itself. Oh well, guess I'll have to ditch her sooner than I thought. I opened and stretched my wings, making sure they were ready for some flying. Then I crouched, although my hooves stood lightly on the soil for a quick take-off. Pinkie turned and saw me dart upwards, yelling to wait. I paid her no heed and spiraled higher and higher. Oh, the excitement! I whooped happily, and continued on to find a race course- the only kind I've ever practiced on. A cloud one- it had the perfect clouds that weren't sticky or fragile and the wind was blowing in my face. I liked these odds. I beat my wings to a faster pace, and dodged every incoming cloud with a elegant twirl. This course was easy-peesy! I started to do a loop around every cloud, tying in a twirl as I continued to the next cloud. My tricks got trickier and trickier, and then I came to the hardest trick performable for me- my signature Cloud Driller. The next cloud was a slight distance away, and I would have to perform this quicker than I normally did. I hovered in place, and checked the odds here- destroying the cloud, 40%. Drilling through the cloud, 50%. Bouncing off the cloud miserably- 10%. I think I can handle the odds once again. I smirked, and started flying forwards, twirling and twirling. A slight cone appeared as the wind curled around my body. I could see a spinning picture of a cloud when I squinted my eyes to see. The wind was getting too hard to handle, and I shut my eyes. I then felt a soft yet wet material rubbing my body, and looked to see I was suddenly through the cloud. Behind me, a perfect hoop was floating there. I grinned happily. "Hi Flashy! It took me forever to find you, but I read the note you left at your house so I realized you were here." She beamed, and I gaped at the... the flying contraption. It had propellers on top that spun when Pinkie pushed at some pedals. This was just, wow! "Flashers, lets race each other!" She burst out happily. I flew around her machine, studying all its features. I rubbed a yellow hoof on my chin, and spoke. "How fast can this thing go?" I said. "Oooo, I don't know! As fast as I can push these pedals." She replied, grinning ever wider. I flew right next to the machine, and looked ahead. "Race you to that end of the orchard!" I yelled, flying straighter than an arrow. I flapped my wings as fast as I could, and peeked one eye out to check on Pinkie's spot. She was just behind me, and I yelped and flied even faster. My wings were aching now because I pushed them to their limits, but Pinkie was still a few feet away. I wouldn't shake her off my tail... "Isn't this living, Flash?" She called out to me. That made me grin, and, slowing down next to her, said this. "It sure is, Pinkie. It sure is."
The Train RideMy wings were flapping wildly, but my saddlebags weighed me down to earth. My wing muscles were aching and throbbing with every flap. The rain stung my eyes, and my hooves were lucky that they didn't slip. My hooves were coated with mud as I ran towards the train station. I saw several unicorns and earth ponies entering the train, their giggles and laughs echoing across the barren, muddy field. Close behind me a strong, caramel-colored stallion towed my small wagon full of things- he seemed to barely break a sweat as he galloped behind me. I heard the train's whistle blow twice and I stomped on the muddy ground even harder. Boy, I didn't expect moving to be so hard! It takes forever to pack, forever to get a moving pony, and forever to get to the train station. WHY, Celestia, WHY couldn't I have gotten a unicorn moving pony?! The wooden building neared, and I sighed with relief. Of course, then the faint spark of hope dimmed. The station master called out, "All aboard for Ponyville!" Leaping, I slid on a mud puddle and next to the station panting for breath. I took deep breaths while crawling onto my hooves and gasped, "Wait!" Flashing a ticket, I loaded my wagon of things onto the train. Before I stepped in, the station pony "a-hemed" and pointed at my muddy yellow hooves and belly. Sheepishly, I washed off my hooves in a nearby puddle of rain and rubbed the rest of the mud off at a raincloud. I zipped inside the doorway behind the stationmaster. Soon I heard two whistles screech, and we were chugging along. I walked down the aisle, choosing a plush green seat down at the back and waited. The window was dark and all around the train was muddy grass and small trees. It made me feel gloomy just seeing it. Buuuut I'm really excited now! I was moving to Ponyville! Now I can finally talk with Raindrops whenever I want, and I've heard weather in Ponyville is great too. They also have a great big library there, the Golden Oaks Library, and nearby is a huge apple orchard. Raindrops told me about it one day in a letter, seeing all the blotches of red underneath her and a small orange blur of a pony. She described it amazingly, made me wish I had been flying over it. Suddenly I was drawn to the window, and the terrain wasn't muddy anymore. Of course, it was still raining but everything seemed....brighter somehow. The trees were a bit more frequent, and they grew larger than the ones back at Dodge Junction. I shuffled through one of my heavy saddlebags and found a picture of me at Flight Camp. Filly-me had just beaten the agility course and earned a cutie mark- one blue lightning bolt. It made me smile seeing it- oh, the memories! My tiny hummingbird wings were flapping as hard as they could, straining my muscles. I had already finished the cloud bank, where I flew through a misty path. I had my hooves held forward and my head held high, and soon 5 cumulus cloud poles neared. I quickly zipped side to side, spinning around each pole once. I thought I must've been the best filly flying on that agility course ever! I finished with the poles and now one solitary hoop was ahead- the last obstacle. I squinted my eyes and flew as fast as could, hoping to reach it before the 5 minute mark. My wings were quickly slowing down, but I used a small drifting tuft of cloud to push myself off to keep momentum. It worked. I won it, with a time of 4:09- amazing for many fillies in this course. I got a lovely medal, but the best prize was my cutie mark. I had been flying with glee. "Ponyville Station up ahead!" My eyes jerked back from sleep and I looked for my picture. I stood up so quickly, I fell down because of a bump on the rails. My head on the ground, I looked under my seat and found the picture sitting there. Grabbing it, I stuffed it inside my saddlebag and loaded them on my back. Won't be long now.... Stepping outside onto the bustling train station was a bad idea. Ok, a really bad idea. Ponies shoved to get towards a friend or parent and I found myself pushed around the crowd, like a game of tug-o-war. Colors flashed everywhere and lucky for me, none of them were neon. My eyes would explode if they even glimpsed a neon mane, or a saddlebag, just no neon colors. The ponies were slightly clearing up so I took advantage of this opportunity and ran off the station. "Phew. That was close. I wonder where Raindrops is, she promised to meet me at the station." Trotting back towards the now thinning crowd, I spied for my BPP. BPP means "Best Pony Pals" which is a phrase Raindrops and I came up with. Very soon I heard a voice call out. "Flash! Oh my Celestia, it is so good to see you!" Raindrops said excitedly. I pranced up to her, which was quite hard because of the weight on my back, and embraced her. "Hey Rainy! It's good to see you too. So, do you know where my house is? Uh, lets see here, its 'Cloud Drive.'" Raindrops quickly beckoned me forward, and I followed her through a maze of streets. We arrived at a giant tree house, and we passed it and cantered to a house nearby. The house was a pale grey, with a beautifully made straw roof. Or whatever that is- it definitely looks like straw. Several bulky ponies stood in front, and were dropping some boxes inside for the owner. "So Flash, how do you like your new house?" Rainy says, smiling goofily. I trot up to it as the ponies leave, and call out to Raindrops. "Well, I love it so far. Meet me here in an hour and a half for a tour, and don't forget!" Rainy tends to forget things a lot, so I remind her as much as possible. The yellow pegasus waves, and flies off to her home several streets away. I take a deep breath, and trot through the door. The first thing I see is a basic living room, a place to hang out with my friends. I didn't sit and chat with my friends though; I raced them, and did contests. The contests were especially fun since Raindrops was almost my equal. Anyway, there wasn't much else except for a small kitchen and dining area. Walking up the stairs, I go through a blue door and see a bland room with a bed. Two boxes were in there, both labeled: "My Room." I dropped my saddlebags on the floor, and rummaged through one box. I pulled out some pink covers with my blue lightning bolt on them. Spreading it across my bed, I unloaded more items like some silver and bronze medals and one gold trophy. Soon my room was fully customized and to my liking. I had unpacked my saddlebags and there were only a few other boxes to unload. A tapping from downstairs startled me, and I zoomed down. Raindrops is here! I opened the door and said, "Rainy! You remembered!" There she was, cyan mane and all. I hugged her, and she pulled out a map from a saddlebag. "Map of Ponyville," she explained quickly. We stood there and pointed out huge landmarks, like Sugarcube Corner and Carousel Boutique. Raindrops and I decided to go to the Boutique first to get me a dress for special occasions. Raindrops said we could also get a necklace for each of us. "Okay, I've got my bits Rainy. Lets fly!" We did a mock salute at each other and zoomed upwards, Raindrops telling me about some other ponies she knew. Her other best friend, apparently, was a unicorn named Colgate. She said they couldn't hang out often because they lived on the opposite end of town from each other. Soon, a prissy looking building appeared in the distance and I snorted. That was way too fancy for a tom-boy like me to handle. Soon a blue pony was streaking our way and my agility training kicked in. "Out of the way!" I yelled, expertly dodging up and out of the way of the incoming missile. The pony didn't stop to say sorry, but luckily we weren't hit. Raindrops rolled her eyes. "She does this a lot. Rainbow Dash is always out and about." So we steered down for a landing in front of the building, and I gagged at Raindrops. She said it isn't that bad, but it looked like it belonged in Canterlot! We walked through the door, a ringing sound filling the shop. Dresses and mannequins were everywhere and a stylish white unicorn turned towards us. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique! Today I'm having a sale on some of my best designs." A sale... That was good, because I don't have many bits. She led us to a rack of dresses, showing us which ones would look "lovely" on us. I decided on a blue dress, which was very light (in both meanings). Raindrops chose a pink dress that flowed smoothly over the ground. We made our purchases and didn't bother about the necklaces. I was being choked with fanciness in there! I told Raindrops to call off the tour. I didn't want to see anything else like...that. I waved goodbye to Raindrops through my window and fell onto the couch. What a day. Who knows what would happen tomorrow? I bet it has something to do with a certain pink pony I was told about..... Author's Note Okay, this is my first story on FimFiction and I don't want people to shoot this down. I tried my very best, and lucky for you I'm a spelling freak. Hope you enjoyed the story! :D
Pinkie and the PartyThe morning light shined brightly into my eyes, and I groaned loudly. Sure I was active, but active ponies need rest to be their best! Soon, though, I slide out of bed and stumble towards the stairs. I took a large step, and tumbled down a few steps before flying up- and hitting the ceiling. After sitting still for a few minutes, clutching my head, I walked towards the kitchen. I yawn and rub an eye with a hoof. I pick out my favorite Wonderbolts mug and get out some ingredients for coffee. After a few mistakes and false starts, the coffee was brewing and I relaxed on the couch. For a second. Then I went back to the coffee, deemed it worthy to be sipped, and gulped it down. My first reaction was hot, hot, hot! But it soon changed to energy and I became wide awake. I brushed my hoof through my blue-green mane, said hoof getting stopped numerously by tangles. Time to brush my mane. I thought. Usually my tail is fine, but I do brush it occasionally. Upstairs, I brushed through my mane, becoming well acquainted with battling tangles with a bristly sword. As soon as my mane was silky smooth, I looked in the mirror. The pink streak in my mane was faded, so I searched for my mane dye. It took a long time to find it, but it was worth it. I loved my pink streak; streaks are so cool! As I carefully applied the dye, the pink stripe in my mane became brighter and brighter, eventually becoming so bold it could've been neon. If it was neon though, I would grimace and wash it out. My mane was done, sure, but here came the hardest part- doing my tail. Let me tell you, reaching your tail is near impossible. Mostly I have a friend help, but at this early in the morning? I shouldn't bother any pony! I circled for what felt like hours until stomping my hoof and changing tactics. I squeezed some due and my hoof and smeared a streak on my tail. "There. Problem over, dilemma avoided." I sighed and thought about what to do now. I hadn't gotten any books to read yet, but the library must be closed right now. In fact, it's so early I bet only I'm awake. Then I considered that fact, and that I want to stretch my wings. Not like this morning, I mean! The thought almost excites me, though- being the only one awake in Ponyville! What if some pony woke up to see my flying by their window, dodging signs and anything in my way? They'd be amazed! Somepony up this early, though? Not a chance on a Saturday like today. Guess my fantasy just now could be reality! I quickly decided to use my goggles to keep my vision sharp. I scanned the long dirt road. I'd have to swerve towards the fringes of the street, but nothing a tough pony like me couldn't handle! Maybe I could dodge some carts and barrels- there are tons of those on the street corners! Flipping my goggles on, I splayed out my wings and zipped out onto the street, eager and awake. Maybe it was the thrill of practicing in a new town, but I tried a few challenging stunts. Not as amazing as a sonic rainboom, mind you, but challenging and amazing feats for me. I even did a few flips to make my stunts more exciting. Okay, okay, no pony was watching but imagining an audience makes me do so much better. I'm not a scaredy pony, y'hear? The only thing that really frightened me was the Nightmare Moon incident, because if it was dark no pony could see my tricks and I can't do amazing tricks if there isn't an light either. I could use candles but it'd still be hard to.. Forget it. Maybe I'm a teeny, tiny bit afraid of eternal night, but I am NOT scaredy pony. Never since then. I returned to my house with pride, but less pride than normal because I got lost on the way home. I went left instead of right on Mane Street. My muscles were flexed and ready for more training later today, except right now I needed a power nap and some brunch. As I approached the door to my house I saw that my lights were off. Huh, I don't remember turning them off. Oh well, who cares? I reached for the doorknob and slowly turned it; I just wasn't good with them. The door opened and I stepped inside. "SURPRIIIISE!" The lights flashed on and a loud voice drilled into my head. I jumped in surprise. A pink pony, and dozens of other ponies crowded my house and started partying and chatting.. Well, this could have been worse. The pink pony hopped up to me with a big smile. She started talking at the speed of light andI quickly tried to make sense of it all. "HiIfoundoutyouarenewheresoIthrewthispartyanddoyoulikeit?" Apparently she saw me at the train station yesterday, and planned this party while I was at the Boutique. She set it up when I was out practicing. In my mind, I felt creeped out that she saw when I left my house at a time I knew I was the only pony out. Soon, the pony named 'Pinkie Pie' talked slower and she said, "Are we best friends forever? Pinkie Promise?" Her eyes widened and so did her smile. To be honest, it was a little creepy. I answered as best I could, but she had to show me how to do a Pinkie Promise. I was trotting around the party, when I came to the table. A large, delicious looking, chocolate cake rested on a plate. I zoned out and drooled a little. How did she know? Chocolate cake is my favorite kind of cake! No sprinkles, just smooth, delicious icing and rich, fluffy cake. Mmmm. Pinkie appeared in front of me. "Try some! I made it myself so it's extra-duper special!" I reached for a knife and slowly cut through the oozing chocolate icing and then I sliced through dark, fluffy cake. In the corner of my eye, Raindrops was smiling and rolling her eyes. Pinkie was super excited; she really wanted me to try the cake. Now I took a slow bite out of the cake, and my eyes opened wide and my mouth was smiling and open. "Pinkie, this is delicious! This," I say each word between bites, "is the best cake I've ever had! Thanks so much!" I reached out and hugged the pony I had before deemed creepy. She hugged with the force of a bear! Afterwards she was grinning happily and hopped away with a small "your welcome." I finished my slice of cake and stood there, crumbs slipping through my mouth. A few ponies walked up, introduced themselves, and said, "Welcome to Ponyville!" One of the ponies was the oh-so-famous magic protégé Twilight Sparkle. I had read all about her in my old town. My old town... But with my mouth full, all I said was, "Try some cake." Now I feel embarrassed. She levitated a slice onto a plate and walked off. She must've rolled her eyes. I guess this party isn't so bad after all, though. Raindrops and I found Colgate here, and Colgate became my second BPP. Turns out she admired pegasi and their cloud magic. And she loved meeting Raindrops' friends! I knew we weren't going to meet a lot, but I should still try right? I wandered about the party, eventually seeing an odd stallion. He had a spiky brown mane and tail. The mysterious stallion always disappeared before I could talk to him. Huh. The time passed quickly, and soon my clock struck 1:00 P.M. A few minutes after some ponies left, I told Pinkie I was partied out. Saying bye to Pinkie and a some other guests, I found a present sitting on the counter. A note read, "Do not open until the 21st." Who left this here? Maybe Raindrops? Or Colgate, or maybe Twilight! What was the importance of that day? That was a week away, anyways, so I don't have to worry too hard. As I slipped under the covers of my warm and inviting bed, I decided what I would do tomorrow. Tomorrow I was going to the library to talk more with this magical protege. Author's Note The mysterious stallion is a brown pony, and doesn't play any role in the story. Guess who he is for fun.
Meeting the ProtegeMy eyelids fly open, and I lick my lips. Huh? Where’d my cake go? Sadly, I realize it was only a dream. I flip off the covers, catapulting them onto the ground, and started about my morning business. Leaping down the smooth stairs, I prepared myself some chocolate cake from yesterday. I had thrown it in the fridge to keep it cool. I open up the container I put the cake in, and cut a sickingly sweet slice. Taking a bite, chomping through the icing and fluffy cake, my taste buds cheer and jump. Boy, was that good cake! I finished the slice in 10 seconds flat after the first bite. Reaching for the knife to cut more, I suddenly slap my hoof. One slice a day, and no more, brain. Got it? I want that cake to last. Gazing at the clock, I realize it is 10:28 A.M. "The library should be open now. Let's see how magical this pony is." Opening the door, I walked outside and saw dark clouds on the horizon. Not good. I considered different plans in my mind- like should I stroll in and act superior? Or be friendly but quiet? My hooves led me towards the library and I wondered if I should knock. This is a home and a library isn't it? Bringing my hoof to the door, I knock three times. Tap, tap, tap. My mind had decided that I should be polite. I heard a loud thud after I knocked, and pattering hooves. "One second!" Twilight yelled. At least, I assumed that was Twilight. Soon the door opened to reveal a purple unicorn. She seemed to have brushed her mane in a hurry, and her eyelids dragged down a little. "Hi, I'm Flash. Remember me? From the party last night?" I put on a smile. This was not what I expected. Books everywhere, and a little dragon putting them away. Twilight saw me staring at the dragon, and swiftly introduced me. "Spike! We have a visitor. So this is Spike, my assistant, and Spike this is Flash, our new neighbor." I smiled and waved a hoof at him. He seemed genuinely friendly and not a fire-breathing, roaring dragon. Spike waved and smiled, then went back to work. "So anyways, Flash, why are you here? Do you need a book?" Twilight asked. My plans had shattered in my mind, and because of my messy mind, I quickly go with Plan B. "Yes, I was looking for a new book to read. Something to keep me busy when I can't sleep." I lied. I always fall asleep, and I always sleep soundly. Twilight invited me in, and I looked about the shelves for something even remotely interesting. I pulled one out of a shelf and it read: Advanced Unicorn Magic. Twilight grabs it in her purple light and puts it away. She grins sheepishly. "Sorry, I have a ton of magic books here. Look over on that shelf. My friend Rainbow Dash..." I stop listening to her and fly over to the shelf. All of the books there are labeled as adventure books, so I randomly pick one of its perch. Daring Do and the Griffon's Goblet sounds interesting. I zoom over to Twilight to check the book out. Before I leave, I apologize, "Sorry if I distracted you from studying." Twilight just says it was really no problem, but I don't believe her. She seems to be a study queen! After that, I walk outside only to realize it's raining. My house is across the street, across the pools of mud, across the puddle. I feel my coat and shiver. That'll take a while to clean out. I tuck the book under my wing. I start to edge across the street, as my feathers aren't waterproof, only to feel no rain. Cool! I trot faster, and see a magical aura protecting me from the rain. I look back at the library and grin. At least she isn't mean or ignorant. I start to move faster across the mud so I don't waste time standing around and wasting her magic. That wouldn't be neighborly, and in my old town I was the most neighborly pony you'd ever meet. I saw mud splash endlessly onto the aura, and I grimace. I hope she doesn't see that! I stand on the doorstep to my home, and then think about our short conversation. And I face hoof. I didn't even talk to her about magic, like I wanted to, to know more about her. I mean, what does she learn all day? She must've run out of books to learn magic from by now. I shake off as much mud as I can and step inside my warm house. I throw the book on the table, and soar upstairs, mud dripping to the floor anyway. Time for a bath, I think. Yuck! Author's Note I am not proud of this chapter, so really sorry guys.
Bathtime...Yuck!I cautiously creeped towards the door, standing straight and immovable. I slowly reached out a hoof, and then...poke. The door groaned, and moved backwards a bit. I edged along the wood, the floorboards squeaking in protest. Mud splattered the ground around me, and I winced, thinking of what I'd have to clean up later. And then I imagined having to take another bath. That thought sent chills down my spine. I walked through the door and looked around. It was fairly simple; only a sink, mirror and tub. A few towel hooks lined the wall, too. I sighed and jumped into the tub to not drip anymore mud. I wish I hadn't splashed mud everywhere when I ran; I distinctly remember it staining the glowing pink aura of magic, until it faded off the surface. Only to be splashed again. I heard a gurgling sound; it was the mud going down the drain. Suddenly I remembered a thought I had a day or two ago, when I was thinking back to the last Summer Sun Celebration they had had in Ponyville. I remember that one sentence I had thought, drifting away my fears. I am not a scaredy pony. Courage blocked my river of doubt like a beaver dam, not allowing a single doubt through. I twisted the shiny silver knob, the clear liquid gushing out in a large waterfall, never pausing. Then I jumped up, hitting my skull on the shower head, and then softly caressing my head with a hoof. The faucet streamed cold water down, and it reached my hooves- cold as the arctic where the Crystal Empire was. I really should check the labels- WAY too cold for my taste. Now branches of courage were falling off the dam, letting drops of doubt through. The silver knob squeaked after I turned it again to stop the frosty water, laughing at my failure to notice the large, blue 'C' on its top. I reached my front hooves towards each silver crystal and wobbled slightly, until I suddenly twisted each knob. Mild water cascaded down with a plunk, and I eased into relaxation, starting to slide down into the rapidly rising water. It numbed my body, all my limbs slowly falling into a deep slumber. When my head lowered into the water I snorted loudly and water then whipped me in the face, as I just slammed my hoof against the smooth mirror of water. I quickly twisted each knob to its original position, and my bath doubts came back- why couldn't I just fly in the rain, and let it wash off? But no, I can't fly in rain. Too hard. Maybe I could get some sponges, and sponge it off? Nah, I don't have sponges. I quickly thought up ideas, and then would shoot them down. My legs started to get tired and creaky from standing up for so long today. In fact, it was almost 11:00 A.M. now, and Rainy was going to come soon for the rest of my tour! Now I set my decision in stone- I have to do this, and do this quick. I plunked my flank into the water and reached for a slippery bar of soap. I pulled off a balancing act- rubbing it on my body and then when I dropped it I would balance it on my hoof again and repeat. I washed around each of my streaks, hoping not too much of it would fade. My aqua mane was glistening with soap bubbles, and I started to drain the bath of horrors. My wings flared open and closed, trying to shake off all the heavy beads of water. Honestly, my wings looked quite pretty when beads of water were laced through the feathers. But I couldn't fly then. I reached out for a towel and rubbed it on my wings, and soon I dropped the rough purple towel. My feathers were fluffed out and it looked hysterical! I giggled to myself and proceeded to dry myself.. I glanced at clock- it read "10:59." And that's when I lost it. I quickly surveyed myself in the mirror- wet mane, fluffy wings with an equally fluffy tail, and two worried pink eyes. I glanced out the window, and sure enough some ponies were out there. Bon Bon, Berry Punch, the brown pony from my party- oddly he was galloping somewhere- and Lemon Hearts. Luckily, no Raindrops though. The yellow unicorn noticed me and waved. I smiled shyly and waved back. I ducked back inside and started to smooth my ruffled tail. Ugh, what a nuisance. Soon my tail was smooth, and only an occasional strand stuck up. My mane just dried and it was driving my CRAZY how it poofed up and away from my hooves. A loud bang startled me. It repeated, again and again. I flew downstairs and called out to the door. "Who is it? Is it you Rainy?" I nervously asked. I looked out the peephole and as I did the mare- I could tell by the voice- replied. "Nope, it's just me! I got a letter for you from..." The mailmare paused and I could hear her shuffle with a piece of parchment. "A Ms. Minuette Colgate?" I gawked at the wood. She sent me a letter! We're going to stay best pony pals forever! I squeaked to myself and bounced on my hooves until the mare called out again. "Are you gonna take the letter Ms?" I stopped and then thought. Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to let the pony see my mane like this. Besides, the mailmare was very trustworthy. I reached out and opened the door, smiling awkwardly when the mailmare looked at me. Her crossed golden eyes just blinked and a gray hoof passed me the letter. The pegasus said "Have a nice day" and then zipped off to deliver more mail to the citizens. That was a focused pony. I slammed the door, remembering my letter and placed it on a table. Mane first, letter later. I zoomed upstairs and grabbed a brush in my muzzle. Time to tame my mane. I managed to get my bangs curled over onto my forehead like it usually is, except it was slightly nicer and fancier because I was going out, in fact it almost looked like Rainy's mane. I frowned. She was coming, and she would reach out her hoof and knock on the door any minute now! I started working on the back of my neck, smoothing it down but not breaking tangles. I sighed and stopped brushing. My mouth was tired of holding the brush, and my teeth ached and felt almost numb from grasping it so long. A familiar knock startled me- which soon was replaced by joy. Tap, tap tap, tap. That meant it was important, so I leaped the stairs. I landed with a thud- my hooves collapsed beneath me from the impact. Raindrops voice pierced through the door, asking me what that was. Smoothing my unfinished mane with a hoof, I put on a smile and opened the door. Author's Note Sorry for never updating! I had a blizzard over the weekend and I didn't have power for days. Anyways, happy Hearts and Hooves everypony!
Sugarcube Corner and the Orchard"Hi Rainy. Where- Where are we going today?" I tried not to sound flustered, and did the best smile I could muster. Raindrops started to answer, but my eyes strayed up to her mane. It was dripping, wetter than usual, and overall- messy! My lips were squirming, trying to open up and laugh. I made sure they didn't though, and Raindrops had stopped talking- but I didn't notice. I felt like I was in a battle between laughing and keeping my mouth shut. My eyes finally moved back to her aqua ones, and they were staring at me- VERY sternly. I opened my mouth for a gulp of air and prepared to say I'm sorry- "Ahahahahaha!" She- she was laughing? Why? I was staring at her- which is rather impolite- and I wasn't listening to her, but she was LAUGHING? You have GOT to be serious. "Yeah, yeah, my mane is a mess. I had to help clear some of the clouds by the orchard place- Apple Fields or something- and Cloud Chaser accidentally kicked a cloud above me and 'rained on my parade.' Plus, I had to fly over here in some real strong wind which messed up my mane. See? Perfectly logical explanation!" Raindrops said, imitating what the purple unicorn would probably say. We giggled at that, and started a slow pace towards the gingerbread house. Raindrops hovered above the ground next to me, and was telling me about her favorite cookies that she buys from there. Our conversation soon stopped, and we trotted in silence. "So, who owns Sugarcube Corner? Have you told me about him or her before?" I said, trying to strike up a casual conversation. Raindrops grinned, and, quoting a character from her favorite SCI-Fi show, said, "Spoilers" with a huge grin. I sighed, rolling my eyes, and thought up a lively way to have fun- in my favorite way! Turning to the yellow Pegasus, I said, "Race y-" I was tackled, and I fell into a puddle. My mane was now drenched like Rainy's mane, and I turned to see who assaulted me. It was not what I imagined. A pink missile. She was bouncing, smiling wide as a mile, and looked at me with blue eyes that screamed "be happy!" I stood up, and looked at her closely. Pinkie Pie was slightly sweating, when I looked closely, and seemed to have ran a marathon to get here. I groaned in my head. Why the hyper one? Why now? "HiRaindropsandFlashowareyouI'mfinewhataboutyou?" I staggered to my hooves and stammered out a random response, not completely heaing what she had said. "Uh, yes?" Pinkie burst out laughing, and looked at me happily. "Silly Flash! I didn't ask a yes or no question! I asked, 'How are you.'" Pinkie started giggling again, bouncing along with us like what just happened had been the most normal thing in the world. I giggled with her, because I hadn't been listening and said a funny response. I would've laughed at a pony who did that! "Pinkie, how- why did you tackle me? And why are you following us to that sweet shop, uh, Sugarcube Sweets?" I asked, wracking my brain to find the name of that shop. All the file cabinets of information were in terrible disarray, and mini-mes ran around trying to find that information. "Uh, Flash? I kinda forgot to tell you... Pinkie works at 'Sugarcube Sweets.'" Raindrops said, scuffing the ground with a hoof. Pinkie smiled and pulled a cupcake out from nowhere. "Here! A cupcake will cheer you up! And it's Sugarcube Corner Flashy!" Ugh. That is the worst nickname I have ever been given. Her smile certainly makes me happy, though, and I wish I could have a cupcake too... "You can have a cupcake! Just ask, silly mcpony pants!" Pinkie said, shoving a cupcake on my suddenly outstretched hoof. Pinkie continued bouncing along, and I thought over what just happened. Pinkie can read minds and pull out cupcakes from nowhere. Pinkie works at Sugarcube Corner - Yes that's the name!- and likes making ponies happy. I am writing a list in my head about something I shouldn't care about, much less make a mental list about. I sighed to myself, and with my eyes closed, crashed into something. My nostrils exploded. Delicious, sweet gingerbread! Creamy vanilla icing! Cupcakes! Ponies were loudly chatting away inside, and I opened my eyes and saw a small line going out the door. Wow, is this the only sweet shop in town? "Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, the most amazingly amazing sweetshop in all of Equestria!" Pinkie did a split and outstretched her front hooves. Her smile was getting very, very annoying. And very, very big. "Do you want another cupcake, or maybe some.." While Pinkie droned on and on about what I might want, I fluttered inside to get a menu. Rainy followed me, with Pinkie hopping behind her. I shared a nervous glance at my PFF because Pinkie still hadn't stopped talking. "...or a milkshake! Hey guys, what're you doing under the menu? You're supposed to read it, not sleep under it!" Pinkie said, giggling and snorting as I pointed my hoof at an apple-based cupcake. Raindrops ordered too, and the obnoxious party pony raced into the kitchen. A blue pony with a pink, frosting-styled mane trotted up to my and said, "Sorry, she always hounds newcomers. Would you like a drink with your cupcake, hun?" I merely shook my head. Pinkie and the earth pony exchanged places, and I started munching my cupcake. I didn't realize that apple cupcakes are horrible until I registered what I just ate. "Hey Flashy! That was Mrs. Cake, one of my bosseseses! I hope you like yo- hey, are you alright, best friend?" I was coughing out my cupcake and Raindrops was patting me, whispering questions like "are you alright" and "shh" noises. I hate when Raindrops gets all motherly on me; it ruins the new image I wanted to make for myself. In my old town I was considered a coward. Pinkie Pie merely gasped and ran to the kitchen, coming out with a fresh, strawberry cupcake. I was groaning, forgetting about the annoyance that was Pinkie Pie. I swiped the cupcake and nibbled as much as I could.Pinkie was staring intently at me, and I cracked a weak smile. "That f-feels better. Thanks a ton, Pinkie." I said, and with each word I gained more strength. "Just, next time, can you remember to not give me any apple cupcakes?" Pinkie grinned widely and nodded her head a ton. She pranced back to the kitchen, and ponies stopped staring at what was happening. I looked at Raindrops and muttered, asking if we could leave and do something relaxing. I had a large head-ache from listening to Pinkie today. I needed some relaxing time where she couldn't bug us. Raindrops and I soared out and I unknowingly was following her. Lost in thoughts, I watched the landscape below me change from small town to large orchard. I watched how the red dots would suddenly disappear, and blurs of ponies walking around the trees. I sighed dreamily. "So, you like the view buddy? It's about the most relaxing thing in the world, watching the Apples work." Raindrops called out from miles away. I barely heard the echo of her voice, and nodded lightly. It was so... organized, how they worked. And they didn't miss a beat! Kick tree, move baskets, kick tree, move baskets... It was like music, how they stayed on beat and did the same thing over and over. Raindrops and I soared over the orchard for hours, until I said I was going to go home. I got so relaxed by watching that and chatting with my friend who sounded a million miles away. I opened the door to my house, trotted lazily up the stairs, and fell into my bed. Today was very annoying at first, but it became the best day in Ponyville so far. I thought about the orchard and started to drift into sleep... Author's Note I have been the worst author ever by ignoring this site. Boo me.
Learning to LiveI woke up in the morning to a knock at the door. I pushed off the covers and jumped off my bed, stretching my whole body. Walking sluggishly, I dragged my hooves down the stairs. Grumbling, I opened the door and opened it, only to see a pink blur racing past me. She bounced everywhere, and I groaned. She admired everything in my house- the paintings, the colors, everything! I dragged my hooves to the kitchen, and started brewing a coffee to wake me up. As I did my new morning routine, Pinkie asked me all about what I was doing and why. As if I was ready to answer anything now of all times! "Will...answer.... need coffee now...." I groaned, watching the brewing coffee intently. Even though I was a major athlete- er, obstacle racer?- I had a hard time getting up in the morning. I mean, how was I expected to do that after hours of training before dusk? The coffee was ready and I grabbed it quickly. "Hey, why d'you need coffee? Some cupcakes would be much better, and so would apples, chocolate milk, sprinkles, whip cream, cherries, cakes..." Pinkie Pie droned on and on as I gulped down the scalding elixir. It might be a tad bit bad, but it did the trick. As Pinkie annoyingly bounced beside me as I drank, some energy flowed through my body. I turned to her and sighed. "Why are you...hm.... 'visiting' me today? I am not a morning pony, Pinkie Pie." I said, loosely throwing out words. Of course, I didn't want to offend her. But hopefully today she won't try and push her luck. "Because I have to make up for yesterday! You forgive me, right?" She said, smiling even wider when I begrudgingly nodded. I have to get away from her fast- but Raindrops will be coming later, so I shouldn't go where I can't keep track of time... I dashed with newfound energy and grabbed a sticky note from a drawer. I also got a pencil and wrote out a note to put on my door for Rainy. "'If I'm not here, go to orchard." I said, smiling. That was taken care of, now I can ditch this pony. Although, I still don't wanna hurt her feelings. I'll ditch her later, I guess. "Um, I have to eat breakfast. But since you're here, I thought we should go to a café or something. Want to go?" I asked nervously. Pinkie stopped her bouncing mid-air, and nodded vigorously. She then reached over and pulled me in the tightest hug, well, ever! "This is going to be the start of a great friendship, Flashy Dash!" She smiled and started dragging me out onto the street. By now Pinkie had dragged me across town, towards the farm and the apple orchard. I kept saying we passed all the cafés already, but she said there was still one. I kept staring at her, because I checked a complete map of Ponyville and we had passed every café. I don't get why she was doing this, but my stomach by punching itself. Oh well, guess I'll have to ditch her sooner than I thought. I opened and stretched my wings, making sure they were ready for some flying. Then I crouched, although my hooves stood lightly on the soil for a quick take-off. Pinkie turned and saw me dart upwards, yelling to wait. I paid her no heed and spiraled higher and higher. Oh, the excitement! I whooped happily, and continued on to find a race course- the only kind I've ever practiced on. A cloud one- it had the perfect clouds that weren't sticky or fragile and the wind was blowing in my face. I liked these odds. I beat my wings to a faster pace, and dodged every incoming cloud with a elegant twirl. This course was easy-peesy! I started to do a loop around every cloud, tying in a twirl as I continued to the next cloud. My tricks got trickier and trickier, and then I came to the hardest trick performable for me- my signature Cloud Driller. The next cloud was a slight distance away, and I would have to perform this quicker than I normally did. I hovered in place, and checked the odds here- destroying the cloud, 40%. Drilling through the cloud, 50%. Bouncing off the cloud miserably- 10%. I think I can handle the odds once again. I smirked, and started flying forwards, twirling and twirling. A slight cone appeared as the wind curled around my body. I could see a spinning picture of a cloud when I squinted my eyes to see. The wind was getting too hard to handle, and I shut my eyes. I then felt a soft yet wet material rubbing my body, and looked to see I was suddenly through the cloud. Behind me, a perfect hoop was floating there. I grinned happily. "Hi Flashy! It took me forever to find you, but I read the note you left at your house so I realized you were here." She beamed, and I gaped at the... the flying contraption. It had propellers on top that spun when Pinkie pushed at some pedals. This was just, wow! "Flashers, lets race each other!" She burst out happily. I flew around her machine, studying all its features. I rubbed a yellow hoof on my chin, and spoke. "How fast can this thing go?" I said. "Oooo, I don't know! As fast as I can push these pedals." She replied, grinning ever wider. I flew right next to the machine, and looked ahead. "Race you to that end of the orchard!" I yelled, flying straighter than an arrow. I flapped my wings as fast as I could, and peeked one eye out to check on Pinkie's spot. She was just behind me, and I yelped and flied even faster. My wings were aching now because I pushed them to their limits, but Pinkie was still a few feet away. I wouldn't shake her off my tail... "Isn't this living, Flash?" She called out to me. That made me grin, and, slowing down next to her, said this. "It sure is, Pinkie. It sure is."
