The weakest can become the strongest, and the unruly can become the leaders. Fate has a funny way of doing that to even the most unlikely of ponies. They may not know it yet, but a group of unsuspecting youth are going to be the saviors of Equestria when the Elements of Harmony aren't capable of it. Hell is rising in the land and things are bound to get worse. The situation is surely dangerous...
But nothing is more dangerous than a group of determined, out of their league kids.
Life in Ponyville generally isn't a difficult one to live. Follow your dreams, reach your destiny, and act upon it. That’s how life has always worked. That’s how life will always be. And for many of the citizens, it was a very enriching life, filled with wonder, happiness, and friendship. Each new generation learns their talents and gain their cutie marks; and while every pony achieves these things through time, only a certain few rise to something greater and become the embodiment of order and peace. The Elements of Harmony.
One of these elements, the Element of Laughter, resided in the home of some of Equestria’s greatest bakers. While the Cakes were cleaning up and checking recounting their inventory, a certain pink mane pony was making a wide variety of silly faces towards the two twins giggling gleefully in their cribs.
“Where’s Pinkie?” she playfully said while covering her face. “Here I am!!” It was the big reveal that elicited fits of laughter from the two twins. Cup Cake turned towards the source of laughter and let a gentle smile creep upon her face.
“Carrot?” she turned towards her husband who was still stocking up the remaining flour left.
“Yes Sweetie?” he responded, making eye contact with his lovely wife.
“Ever since we had Pound and Pumpkin, I have always wondered…well…what do you think they’ll grow up to be?” Carrot Cake pondered on her question for a moment. “I honestly haven’t put much thought into that before,” he answered truthfully. “But seeing how Pound is the first Pegasus in our family tree for quite some time, I’m sure he won’t fail to disappoint. And if Pumpkin is anywhere near as sweet and lovely as you are…”
“Carrot, please,” Cup interrupted showing a hint of red on her blue tinted coat.
“Oh, but it’s true my sweet, sweet petite cupcake,” Carrot continued flirting with Cup walking towards her and planting a soft kiss on her lips, lasting briefly before they parted. “But as I was saying, if Pumpkin is anywhere near as sweet and lovely as you are, then I can see great things coming her way, especially since she’s a unicorn.”
“Yeah I know,” she said still a little crimson from the kiss and Carrot’s emphasis on compliments directed towards her and looked back at a now passed out Pinkie and twins, most likely exhausted from all the laughing and playing they’ve done. “It’s just I’m eager to know what they will do with their lives.”
“Well sadly, I can’t predict any of that,” Carrot said walking towards his wife and wrapping his forelegs around her watching his children sleep. “However, I have a very strong feeling that our kids will grow up to do something extraordinary. I just know they will go off and do great things in their lives.”
~10 years later~
“Principal Apple Bottom,” Cup Cake began, annoyance flooding her voice. “What did she do this time?”
It was the afternoon and all of the young ponies were headed back to their homes, all except for one little filly. Her mane was scuffed and muddy, tiny scars covered her body and her blue ribbon that she wore on her hair was nearly torn apart completely. Pumpkin stared daggers at the principal, obviously angry that her mother had to be involved.
“Well as you know Mrs. Cake, Pumpkin has had a history of violence towards the students here…”
“And they all deserved it,” Pumpkin muttered under her breath.
“But this recent violation is far more serious than any other she has done in the past.”
“Oh really?” Cup Cake responded looking at Pumpkin with a mixture of anger and disappointment, causing Pumpkin to slump into her chair.
“Not only did she elicit a fight and carried on with it, but she proceeded to beating one of our students with a blunt object even when the victim pleaded her to stop.”
“Hey,hey hold on!” Pumpkin exclaimed seeming offended by the way the principal worded her statement. “One, she was not a victim, nor did I elicit a fight. She started it! And second, I hit her with a lunch tray, which wasn't even that hard!”
“You threw the first punch Pumpkin. That means you started the fight and she was merely defending herself.”
“Well she threw the first verbal punch when she said I was a mentally challenged blank flank throughout the day, so I think my punch was justified.”
“That doesn't equal…” Principal Apple Bottom was on the verge of snapping, but quickly regained her composure and pushed her glasses up. “Mrs. Cake, could you please handle your child?”
“Pumpkin, go sit outside the office until I’m done talking,” Cup demanded. “We’ll discuss this on the way home.”
“But Mom,” Pumpkin began to whine. “She’s not even trying to see it from my…”
“Go outside now!” Cup Cake’s patience was wearing thin, and Pumpkin knew it from the way she was looking at her. She quickly got off the chair and scurried outside the office. Cup Cake let out a strong sigh.
“Listen Ms. Apple Bottom, I've tried so hard with her, but it seems like…”
“Please Mrs. Cake,” Principal Apple Bottom stuck her hoof out to indicate that there was no need for an explanation. “ I've known you for a while now and I know what a good parent you are. I’m not questioning your parenting skills, and I am confident that you are doing everything you can. However, I am worried about your daughter.” She saw that Cup Cake’s eyes were sinking with sadness and it pained Apple Bottom to see her old friend like that.
“Listen, I care about Pumpkin, and I want to believe that she can be civil and calm much like her brother, but she has a tendency to…overact, to put it lightly and not think before she does things. As a result, she has had more detentions and suspensions, both in school and out, than any of our students. This can be potentially dangerous if not dealt with early on. I've seen too many of my former students get into criminal activities for maintaining such habits, and neither I nor you want to see little Pumpkin go down that route. Now she was provoked and called a whole bunch of nasty things from what I've heard and because I know you’ll handle it, I’ll let it slide this once, but if she does this again, I’m afraid we will have to expel her.”
“Thank you Ms. Apple Bottom. It won’t happen again,” Cup Cake apologized, failing to convince even herself that her statement was true. She has lost track of how many times she said that.
“I sure hope not,” Principal Apple Bottom responded. “Please have a nice day Cup.”
Pumpkin was sitting outside the office tracing her front hoof in a circle along the floor waiting for her mother. When the door opened, she looked up at her mother. Her facial complexion has softened since she left the office, but she still held that face that screamed disappointment.
“Pumpkin, let’s go. We’ll discuss this on the way home.
***
Cup and Pumpkin Cake began walking home. The first few moments were painfully quite, which led Pumpkin to believe she was sinking in hot water with no way to swim out. She kicked a pebble all the while avoiding her mother’s gaze, and eventually decided to break the silence.
“So, how long did she kick me out this time?” she hissed, still kicking the pebble around.
“She didn't suspend you”
“Yeah that figures. I knew she wouldn't…wait what?”
“She said because the fault ran both ways, she was willing to give you another chance.” Cup stated, lacking emotion in her voice.
“Hah! Bout time some pony saw things my way!” Pumpkin smiled triumphantly. “I might stop leaving marbles outside her office from now on.”
“You’re not off the hook yet young lady!” Cup Cake retorted. “You’re still in trouble for…wait a minute, what do you mean stop leaving marbles?”
“Oh, nothing! I was just teasing!” Pumpkin dismissed, sporting the best smile she could.
“Mmm hmm,” Pumpkin’s mom was not too convinced by her daughter’s words. “Anyway, that’s not the problem. The problem is you constantly getting into fights over and over again and I’m about fed up of it.”
“It’s not my fault Ma!” Pumpkin defended. “They keep insulting me day after day and won’t let up. I have to defend myself from verbal assaults!”
“Not by fighting them constantly! Your brother doesn't get into fights every time some pony teases him.”
Pumpkin felt as if she was going to be sick just by the mentioning of her brother. Every time she got into trouble, she was reminded of what a Celestia-send Pound Cake; the perfect child.
“Pound is a chicken livered pansy who runs away from all his problems!” Pumpkin humphed, gaining a displeasing look from her mother, “Beside, if I had magic lessons, maybe I would be able to find my cutie mark.”
Cup Cake sighed a little, her voice becoming more sympathetic. She understood how frustrating it was for Pumpkin and Pound to be the only ones in their class to not have their cutie marks. At first, the teachers described them as being late bloomers. However, as the years went by, they still failed to get their cutie marks. It was very rare for ponies their age to not have found their special talent by then.
“Pumpkin, we've talked about this before. Getting you into a magical academy takes time and money, money we don’t necessarily have. You’ll have to be patient and wait. And trust me sweetie, you’ll get your cutie mark in due time. Things come to those who wait.”
“So I have to wait but Pound gets to go to his stupid summer flight camp? I don’t see how that’s fair!”
“Well you answered the first of my reasons by stating it was a summer flight camp. A school for magic would take much longer and therefore is more expensive. Second, Pound needs to build confidence, and me and your father figure that this would be the best way to do so. If he can fly, maybe he won’t act like a ‘pansy’ as you put it. Third, and most importantly, you can’t even act right in regular school. How are you going to behave at a magical academy?”
“Come on Mom, you don’t think your darling little angel can behave herself at an academy?” Pumpkin then gave a wide toothy grin, wishing she could do the tiniest bit of magic to make a halo appear on her head.
“No, I don’t.”
“Well I can! Besides, I’m 11 with no magical abilities. How am I going to look if I become an old and wrinkled unicorn who can’t even levitate her spoon? I want to learn from the best, that way I can do all sorts of magic tricks! Then no pony will mess with me because I can make them all vanish, or dump dirt all over them, or better yet turn them all into frogs! Small insignificant frogs!!”
Pumpkin let out a maniacal laugh. Any impression of her being an angel she was trying to pull off was shattered.
“And you wonder why we are always on the fence about getting you into a magical academy,” Cup Cake sighed.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about mama.”
***
At Sugercube Corner, Pound was helping his father with some of his orders that needed to be filled. Being a Cake gave him the natural skills as a baker, so he was pretty good at making pastries and treats. Then again, so was his sister, and it didn't really help him feel any better about being a blank flank. Though that was the last worries on Pound Cakes mind.
“Yo dad, how high will I be?”
“Well,” Carrot began after placing the first layer of the three layered strawberry cake into the Dutch oven. “Seeing how it’s going to be in Cloudsdale, I’d say pretty high up.”
“So, that means that if anyone was to fall from that height, the impact could be fatal?” Pound asked passing his busy father a container of cinnamon.
“As morbid of a question as that is, I would say yes.” Carrot didn't want to rush the answers, but he was multitasking four different orders at once. “But with trained professionals watching, I doubt that will happen.”
Pound swirled his hoof around the rim of a cake bowl and eats some of the leftover mix that was left. “But what if they don’t catch that some pony? I mean, wouldn't that be kind of traumatizing to their family member?”
“Pound, you’re not talking your way out of this. You’re going to the summer flight camp.”
Saddened by yet another failed attempt to coax his parents out of making him go to the flight camp, he planted his head on the table, sending floury dust into the air. “Why do I have to go? Just waste your money on Pumpkin since she actually wants to do something.”
Carrot let a sincere smile beam across his face. Compared to his wife, he had a lot more patience, even with Pumpkin. “Now Pound, how are you going to get some good self-esteem if you can’t do something Pegasuses can normally do?”
“I could just sit in the corner and fade from existence. Then every pony will forget about me.” Pound answered nonchalantly. He tilted his head slightly to the side, showing his powdery face.
The orange colt put down the roller he was using and went over to pat his sons head. “Now now, that’s not the way to look at things. I want you to be confident in yourself and your abilities. You’re a Cake, and Cakes go around with pride and their heads held up high!”
“But Mom told me that when you first asked her out, you were sweating and shaking furiously as if you had seen Hades!”
“Oh details, details.” Carrot dismissed waving a hoof at Pound.
“She also told me that when we were born, you were pacing the hospital floor panicking and questioning yourself about being a good father.”
“That’s not the point and you know it!” Carrot shoved a chocolate truffle into Pound’s mouth hoping it would keep him quite for a while and let him talk. By the look of son’s smiling face as he was chewing on the flavorful candy, he was right.
“Yeah I may have been nervous a few times, and yeah I might have panicked on…multiple occasions, but I pulled through didn't I?” Pound gave an affirming nod, too lost in sugary bliss to even try to speak words.
“Listen champ, confidence and self-esteem go a long way, and it builds good character. If you find you are not good at flying yet, or find the flight camp a waste of time afterwards, then fine. But at least you tried, and you gave it your best effort. That matters more to me than anything else. Now son, will you at least give this camp a shot instead of trying to convince me and your mom why you shouldn't go?”
Pound Cake pondered for a moment. He desperately wanted to find a way out of his situation, but at the same time, he didn’t want to make his father disappointed in him. He nodded his head and swallowed his truffle, grinning at his father.
“Good, now let’s finish up these recipes. Pinkie will be running the store while Cup and I are gone with these deliveries and we want to get as much done as possible. Um, but first, wipe that flour off your face. You look like you dove headfirst into the stuff!”
“Yes sir!” Pound saluted, using a rag to wipe his face returning to helping his father.
Shortly after they resumed working on their projects, Cup and Pumpkin walked into the door still talking.
“Really Mom! But that’s a long time! Can you please shorten it?” Pumpkin begged her mother.
“You’re lucky I didn't make it longer!” Cup Cake refused. “Oh hey honey. Hey Pound.”
“Hello Cupcake,” Carrot answered raising a doughy hand and waving, Pound doing the same thing. “Umm, Pumpkin, what did you do this time?”
“Oh this little ‘angel’ beat up a student with a lunch tray…”
“Like I said, did not even hurt her much,” Pumpkin groaned.
“…and now she is going to be grounded for 2 months. She will be doing most of the chores around the house, and she’s not allowed to have any sweets or go with her friends during her punishment.”
“Why not sell the customers my sweat and tears, too?” Pumpkin exaggerated. “I’m pretty sure the customers would love the taste of child labor with their snacks!”
Carrot could not help but softly giggle, while Pound slowly rolled his eyes at Pumpkins unnecessary statement.
“Pumpkin, my patience is running thin. You are lucky I’m letting you still go to Nightmare Night with Pinkie while we’re gone. In all reality, you should be scrubbing the floors with a toothbrush right now, for how many times you've been in trouble. Now if you want to give me more lip about this, I’ll be glad to give Pound your share of the candy while you scrub away at the floors. Do you want that?”
Pumpkin let out a loud defeated sigh. “No mam.”
“Then I suggest you trot on upstairs and think about what you have done for the rest of the day. And don’t think about leaving either! Carrot, sweetie?”
“Yes honey bun?” Carrot answered his wife’s call.
“I need to talk to you for a minute. Meet me in the living room okay?”
“Sure thing!” Carrot responded. “Pound, hold the fort down until I get back okay. Oh and Pumpkin, try not to cause any more trouble ok?”
Pumpkin simply nodded as she watched her father follow his wife into the living room. With her head hung low, she began to trot upstairs to her room while Pound watched her with questioning looks on his face.
“So…” Pound began, “they didn't suspend you for the umpteenth this time?”
Pumpkin then stuck her tongue out at her brother. “Oh, just shut up!”
Cup led the way into the living room with Carrot trailing not too far behind. As he stepped inside the room, he noticed powdered white hoof prints painting the hardwood floor. Carrot made a mental note to sweep it up afterwards.
“So, I’m assuming this is concerning Pumpkin, correct?” he guessed, sitting next to Cup on the couch. She simply nodded her head.
“Apple Bottom said her next violation would involve expulsion.”
“Well, that’s not good.”
“No, it’s not. And honestly I wish you would help me more than you have recently,” Cup Cake said accusingly, causing Carrot’s eyebrows to rise in confusion.
“I saw you giggling over there. You’re encouraging her behavior!”
Carrot started rubbing his head, showing signs of guilt and a little shame due to her accusation. “Um, well you see…”
“I don’t want to hear any excuses!” Cup Cake interrupted lifting herself slightly from the couch. “This is serious! Our daughter is getting more and more disruptive and I don’t see you doing much to help me. If anything, you’re approving her behavior by being so soft with her!”
Carrot’s face let on a more serious face than he normally did. “I’m not trying to encourage her behavior; I’m trying to be on friendly terms with her so she will listen to me. And for the most part, it works. Does she not come discuss what troubles her when she’s not getting fussed at all the time?”
“Maybe 40 percent of the time!” Cup continued arguing. “Most of the time she will still cause problems even when we’re nice to her. She seems to listen better when there are consequences involved!”
“Yeah but by how much?”
“Well…slightly better,” Cup began thinking on it, “but honestly not by much.”
Carrot scooted closer to his wife and pulled her closer to him. “I know that she can be a thorn in the backside often…most of the time…practically all the time, but she’s still that little precious filly from a few years back on the inside. We just have to learn how to bring it back out of her. I don’t want you to feel like you’re going at this alone, so I’ll do better with letting her off the hook, but would you please not get too frustrated and lighten up a bit. Don’t want my little petite to be mad at me while we are delivering orders in Fillydelphia.”
Carrot leaned into Cup and widened his eyes, forcing a sad puppy dog expression upon his face. Cup tried her best to keep her irritated frown, but for every second she tired, Carrots emerald eyes became wider and became glossier. She hated when he did that; made her feel as if she put down an actual puppy.
“Okay okay, I’ll lighten up a bit,” she submitted, causing Carrot to smile victoriously. “Jeez, sometimes I feel as if I have to raise three children around the house.”
“Well I guess this big boy gets better affection from mommy.” Carrot cooed kissing his wife’s soft cheeks. Cup could not help but giggle a little, her cheeks heating up slightly from the flirting.
“You’re a really corny fellow aren't you? And when are you going to shave those bristles from your face?”
“Oh these?” Carrot pointed at the hairs that were beginning to grow once again on his chin. “Haven’t you heard? Ladies dig a colt with facial hair.” Carrot them brushed his chin along Cup Cake’s face, eliciting giggles from his wife.
“And from the looks of it, I was right.” He continued tickling her with the bristles that were trying to form a beard until Cup stopped him and pressed her lips against his.
“You know,” Cup Cake started completely flushed, “we’ll have a little down time during our trip if we get the deliveries and catering done correctly. Maybe we should spend that time, relaxing.”
“Oh, and what did you want to do while we were relaxing?” asked Carrot confidently having some idea of what she wanted to do, and was completely sure when he heard a sultry giggle escape her lips.
Cup Cake began playing with her husband’s striped tie and answered in the most sensual way she could.
“Oh, I have some ideas. You’ll just have to wait and find out big boy.”
***
The sun was shining, the sky was clear, and practically every pony was out frolicking and enjoying the cool autumn breeze that was hanging in the air. The town was livelier than ever because of the upcoming Nightmare Night event that was coming in a few days. This would generally be an exciting time for all the kids in the town, but one was too worried about upcoming events to enjoy the day fully.
What if I fail? Pound thought to himself, walking past the booths and stands being made for Nightmare Night. What happens if I fall? Cloudsdale is so high up. If no one catches me…oh it would be all over. He shivered at the thought of hitting the cold hard ground. His stomach even began to twist with the gruesome details his mind was forcing him to think up.
I know dad says this kind of thing builds character and confidence, but if I were to fail, it would only make me even more embarrassing. Doesn't help that I don’t even have my cutie mark yet.
He thought back to a week ago where he was being bullied by a group of older colts who harassed him all day, calling him derogatory terms for blank flank and throwing pencils at him during class, and worse, rocks outside. He came home with a few bumps on his back, which caused concern from his parents. Pound simply dismissed it as an accident and received an unconvinced stare from his sister.
He didn't want to think of what would happen if he also was flightless and a blank flank and at his age too. Though, out of everything he’s heard one thing hurt him more. Not only because his sister said it to him, but because he also believed it to be true.
Man you’re pathetic!
“Oi! It’s the Cake’s son. How are you this fine evening?”
Pound’s thoughts were interrupted by the voice directed towards him. He turned to the source of the voice, belonging to the pinto horse wearing a red scarf standing next to a lavender mare whose face was beaming with joy.
“Oh, hello Pipsqueak,” Pound replied. “Hi Dinky.”
“Oi!” Dinky mocked Pipsqueak mimicking his cockney accent, sticking her tongue out at the victim.
“Oh, and to answer your question, I've been better,” Pound answered honestly.
“Really? What’s up little guy?” Pipsqueak asked.
“Well, honestly I’m a little frustrated, about not having a cutie mark yet. I just want to know, what did you have to do to get yours.”
Pipsqueak could hear the discouragement in the young colt’s voice, so he leaned towards his and began to answer.
“Well you see…”
“You see,” Dinky interrupted Pipsqueak planting her fore hooves on the top of his mane. “Pippy here was a little adventurer ever since I knew him. When he was first interested, he was way too young to go anywhere, but as he grew older he started exploring farther and farther away from home!” Pipsqueak nodded agreeing with her statement knowing that he would not get to explain it for himself.
“He started by exploring the plains of Ponyville, then eventually traveled into the Everfree Forest all by himself! Amazingly enough, he explored surrounding islands all by himself, with only a compass. What was even more impressive is what he found: a rare Dragon Toothed Topaz. He came back and displayed it for every pony to see and admire instead of keeping it for himself. And that’s how my Pippy got this little golden compass on his cutie patooty!”
Pipsqueak felt a little embarrassed from the explanation, hoping that Pound wasn't suppressing a laugh or worse, outright laughing. Fortunately for him, Pound was looking at them nonchalantly taking mental notes of everything he was hearing.
“Oh, and he even helped me get my cutie mark by taking me out on one of his adventures see!” She showed him her cutie mark, which was a pair of stars. “When we went stargazing under the moonlight, he helped me learn that I was naturally gifted in astronomy. I could name most of the constellations without even needing to look them up, which eventually led to my cutie mark.”
“So talent and drive is what helps you get your cutie marks then?” Pound asked after taking in everything he heard. “That’s right!” Pipsqueak responded finally having something to say, though it was little.
Pounds head slumped a bit. “Oh well that’s great. Looks like I won’t be getting my cutie mark in my lifetime. Other than making a few pastries, which would have been my cutie mark if it was my real talent, I’m practically talentless and gutless.”
A surge of depressing words sent Pound into a reserved state of mind and he sunk into his own self-loathing. Both Pipsqueak and Dinky were feeling sympathy for the young colt.
“Hey kid, don’t be so down,” Pipsqueak said trying to comfort the sorrowful Cake. “You know if you really want to find your cutie mark that badly, you should do it with a group of young fillies and colts just like you. You might even find a group similar to you. You might want to join the Cutie Mark Crusaders.”
Pound regained his composure and contemplated on the idea. He hadn't considered the Cutie Mark Crusaders before. “Hmm, that might just work.”
“Of course it will work!” an eccentric Dinky exclaimed pouncing on Pipsqueak once more. “Why not talk to Apple Bloom about it. She’s like the CEO of the whole thing now. You can find a branch just about anywhere!”
“What she said,” Pipsqueak grunted still under Dinky’s hooves.
Hope shined on Pound’s face once more and a new destination was set.
“You know, that’s a really good idea! I’ll head off there now. Thanks you two!”
“No problem kiddo. Now Dinky, if you don’t mind, I’d rather you not crush my skull with your hooves.”
“Oops! Sorry Pippy Wippy!” Dinky giggled realizing she was still on top of him and got off. “See ya Pound!”
The grey colt waved back at them and began to walk off with a new found determination.
The Cutie Mark Crusaders he thought it over too himself. Maybe that’s what I need in order to learn what I’m good at. And best of all, its ground level, so I won’t have to worry about falling! That settles it. Sweet Apple Acres here I come!
Grumble.
Pound put his hoof on his belly and rubbed it, causing another grumble to force its way out.
Right after I get me something to eat.
***
Pumpkin tapped the edge of her window, staring outside at others who were enjoying their freedom. Every pony was playing, talking, and simply enjoying themselves while she was stuck in her prison cell. Her parents were out getting some last minute supplies and her brother was doing whatever he normally does, as if she cared. The only thing she wanted was her freedom back.
“Man this sucks!” Pumpkin whined to herself. “I picked a good few months to be grounded. Pinkie won’t be here for more than a few days, so even after Nightmare Night, my enjoyment will be short lived.”
Pumpkin glared back to make sure no pony was around. Partly because she didn't want her family to think she was going insane and partly because she didn't want to get in trouble for mocking them.
“’Pumpkin, you’re lucky I’m a good mother, otherwise I would make you scrub the floor with a toothbrush’” she began mocking her mother in a haughty way. She then continued to mock her brother. “’So, you didn't get suspended for the umpteenth time huh?’ Stupid brother; thinks he’s so much better than me.”
She returned to staring outside the window, a frown settling on her face. “It’s not my fault every pony at our school are jerks. They deserve it! Maybe if Pound would stop letting those idiot bullies ‘Pound’ at him all day, he might not get picked on all the time.”
Pumpkin seemed to have surprised herself by her sudden concern of her brother’s well being. She blamed her concern on her lack of sleep, which wasn't too far off. She continued to stare outside the window as she began to drift off. “I miss Pinkie,” she muttered in a sleepy daze. “At least she knew how to have fun.” Pumpkin slightly rubbed her eyes trying to fight the sleep, but her eyes did not agree with her and she let her head rest on the window, submitting to her tired body.
Clank. Clank.
The noise was so close to Pumpkin’s face, but she chose to ignore it in favor of more sleep.
Clank. Clank.
It wouldn't stop. She had a feeling that some pony was trying to get her attention from the window, and she had a feeling she knew who it was.
“Alright alright!” she groaned. “Give me a sec, jeez!”
Clank. Clank.
With that she quickly lifted her window open and looked out. “If you don’t quit throwing rocks at my window I’ll…” Pumpkin was interrupted by a small rock smacking her in the face. Her annoyance was raised any further when she heard the culprit on the ground laughing.
“Hah hah Two Bit!” she snarled at the young mint colt still tearing up by her reaction. “I suggest you knock that laughing off if you don’t want to get pummeled!”
“Haha…alright miss Pumpkin Pie!” mocked Two Bit, sitting up on his flank and wiping some of the dirt from his mane. “I’ll behave!”
“Whatever. Anyway what do you want?”
“Remember when we went around dropping stink bombs on every pony?”
“Boy do I ever!” A mischievous grin came across Pumpkin’s face. It brought a delight to her face to see the stuck up ponies panic when they realized that they suddenly smelled unpleasant. “What about it?”
It was Two Bit’s turn to grin mischievously. “Well, I believe I found something even more foul than what I we used before.
Come on, let’s go try it out!”
“Alright lets…” Pumpkin paused for a moment. She nearly forgot that she was grounded and forbidden to leave the house. Although, her mother and father were not around at the moment because they went to do last minute shopping, which generally meant they were gone for two hours. She began calculating how long she needed to be gone and how to retrace her steps. Sure she was risking getting in major trouble, but at least she gets to play around with a new weapon to the nasal senses.
“Yo Pumpkin, are you coming or not! I don’t have all day!” Two Bit tapped impatiently.
“Hold on Two Twit!” Pumpkin insulted. “I’m getting my bow, so shut up and be patient!” She grabbed a yellow bow and wrapped it around her mane, closed the windows, and made sure there was no visible evidence of her leaving the house.
The reward is worth the risk!
About thirty minutes later, both Pumpkin and Two Bit were perched onto a tree.
“Okay, hold the balloon open and I’ll pour this stuff in,” demanded the mint colt. “Oh, and don’t get curious and try to smell it. You’ll regret it.”
“Umm, okay,” Pumpkin responded holding the balloon open and Two Bit began to pour some of the concoction into it. “So what is this stuff anyway?”
“It’s a special mixture I found!” Two Bit smiled proudly. “It’s filled with carrot juice, rotten egg yolk, and the nectar from a skunk-lily. I found them in a field not too far from here.” “So this is supposed to be potent?”
“Do you doubt me Pumpkin? I know what plants do what and what mixtures are needed to make it potent! With the right plant, mixture, and technique you can turn a simple plant into a nasal bomb!”
“Wow, you’re a huge nerd you know that?” Pumpkin teased.
“At least I’m not a stupid little blank flank, and at the age of 11 too!” Two Bit retaliated. “My parents said that ponies like that are deemed special!”
“I’d rather be a blank flank then have bunches of weeds on my rear!”
“For your information, these are hay grass. And I got them because I was good with utilizing plants for stuff like this. Maybe if you didn't get suspended so much from schoolyard fights you might find what you’re good at!”
“Or maybe if I didn't waste my time with your lame tail!” Pumpkin replied playfully punching Two Bit in the arm.
“Hey, it’s your choice not mine.” He responded rubbing his shoulder feigning pain. “Now if you’re done abusing me, I’d like to drop this on some pony before we are seen up here.”
Down below, a group of ponies were walking together, one whose face was red in embarrassment and the other one giggling.
“Look, all I’m saying is that you tend to embarrass me in public quite a bit.” Pipsqueak said walking alongside Dinky.
“You think I’m an embarrassment?” Dinky began to whine.
“Wha..no! I never said that!”
“Oh, so you don’t want any pony to know we’re together then?!”
“I never said that either! Blimey I’m not explaining myself well. I just don’t, you know, want to get pounced on every other minute we’re walking together is all.”
“But I like pouncing on you Pippy! You’re so adorable when you are caught off guard.”
“Well, it is nice every now and then I suppose but doing every time ponies come around isn’t really…”
Splat!
Pipsqueak’s mane and coat was covered in a red, sticky substance that not only turned his coat and mane a dark crimson color, but also left a putrid stench on him.
“Oh no Pippy!” Dinky cried out coming closer to the drenched colt. When she was in reach, she found the smell so unbearable she had to cover her nose with one of her hooves, muffling her voice.
“You smell…awful now! What happened? Did someone drop a package filled with smelly things? Come on, we need to get you washed off.”
“Oh bloody Tartarus.” Pipsqueak frowned slightly annoyed by the recent events. “Looks like the start of an eventful day.” The two culprits had already made haste as soon as they dropped the bomb, bursting with laughter as they ran out of the shopping district. After about five minutes of running, they hid behind a small ally and caught their breaths.
“That…was…awesome!” Two Bit huffed, tired from the running and laughing. “Did you see the look on that guys face?!”
“Of course I did!” Pumpkin gleefully replied. “It was the greatest thing I’ve seen all week! However, I almost feel bad for the poor guy.”
“Aww, is Pumpkin showing sympathy for her target? Getting soft on my now?”
“I did emphasize almost right?” She looked into the sky and sighed happily. Totally worth the risk. “So now what?”
“I don’t know,” shrugged Two Bit. “Wanna go get some apples or something. We could make a fake cider and trick the citizens into drinking it on Nightmare Night?”
“Sounds like a plan to me!” Pumpkin and Two Bit got off of the ground and began trotting towards Sweet Apple Acres.
***
Sweet Apple Acres was a common picnic sight for the residence. It was shady, spacious, and since it was away from the market, often quite. It was a nice place for Pound to relax under the shady tree munching away at his wheat sandwich with tomatoes, cucumbers, dandelions, and blue cheese. He felt a warm smile form across his face every time he bit into the fluffy bread.
“So all I have to do is talk to Apple Bloom and she’ll help me find the right CMC group,” Pound said to himself still chewing on his sandwich. “But still, I don’t even know what I’m good at. I can’t fly nor do I have any talents of my own.”
The sad realization that he had nothing to contribute to the group made him frown a bit, hoping that biting into his sandwich once more would make his gleeful smile return. Sadly, it didn't.
“I really am pathetic.”
As Pound was about to take another bite into his sandwich, he was interrupted by a strong impact on the ground beside him. A look of shock and near horror fell upon his face as he turned towards the impact seeing uprooted dirt inching along the otherwise smooth ground. What appeared to be a crater impact was really an onyx Pegasus who was rubbing his skull trying to shake off the pain.
“Uhh, I’m gonna feel that for a few days,” he groaned to himself spitting some of the dirt out of his mouth. “Was sure I could do it this time!”
Pound was relieved that the Pegasus was okay, especially since it was a familiar Pegasus he knew. “Hey Storm Chaser, what are you doing?” “Huh?” responded a confused Storm Chaser rubbing his eyes, clearing up his vision. “Aw, it’s Champ!”
Storm Chaser used his wings to boost himself up and propelled himself towards Pound, putting his arms around Pound’s shoulders.
“So how has things been going! Improving your flying!?” smiled the older colt.
“Um not really,” Pound quickly replied still looking at the crater that Storm Chaser had caused. “Exactly what were you doing that caused that such an impact?”
To Pound’s surprise, Storm Chaser let out a hearty laugh. “Well kiddo that was a result of me trying to break the sound barrier!”
“You’re trying to break the sound barrier?” Pound questioned.
“Yep! Failed nearly 25 times already! Almost put myself into a comma 5 times already. The nurses all say I should avoid doing extraneous flying for about a month after I crash, but I only take about a day or two off before I hit the skies again! And the best part is I don’t feel a thing, with the exception of wing cramps every now and again, but hey, they weren't a big deal!”
Being thrown into the ground over and over isn't a big deal? Pound thought to himself not wanting to say it out loud to avoid being rude. “Well why do you keep doing it? Isn't it painful to constantly be thrown into something?”
“Of course not!” Storm Chaser’s head began to pound. “Okay, maybe a little, but it’s still all worth it in the end.” Pound was failing to see how nearly knocking ones senses out was worth anything. What he didn't fail to see however was Storm Chaser’s look of determination, something Pound wish he had.
“They say only a few Pegasus can actually fly fast enough to get to that momentum. The ones who can are able to push through that barrier, leaving a lofty trail of their success for all too see! That’s gonna be me! I’m gonna leave my mark in the sky and deem myself worthy of a Wonderbolt!”
A spark of admiration showed in Pound. He always looked up to Storm Chaser; he exhibited that stroke of confidence that he didn't seem to have.
“And when I finally reach my goal…”
“Yeah?” Pound urged him on, eager to hear what he will do.
“I’m going to name the fruit of my success…”
“Yeah!? Yeah!?” Pound’s anticipation was rising.
“THE SONIC STORMBOOM!!”
And like that the anticipation was gone. “Uh, you do realize that’s still similar to Rainbow Dash’s Rainboom right?”
“Hey, can’t blame a guy for trying!” Storm Chaser defended flapping his wings to now recline in the air. “Besides, creativity isn't really my thing you know. I’m more of a thrill seeking, chasing the wind type of guy! You’re the one with the creativity; making those cakes and stuff with your dad so maybe you should help me come up with a name!”
“Being able to make pastries and coming up with a unique name isn't even the same thing,” Pound corrected.
“But they both require someone with a creative mind and lots of time on their hands, so they’re all the same to me!” Pound mentally face palmed. Storm Chaser wasn’t necessarily dumb; in fact, he showed himself to be a pretty intelligent colt sometimes. However, his logic the majority of the time never really added up or made sense. Still, with this known fact, Pound still found himself admiring him, and hoping to be like him.
But you know you can’t do that. You’re too weak.
“Well the name can wait,” Storm Chaser dismissed. “What’s really important is that I’m in good shape for the summer flight camp.”
“Wait you’re doing it too?” an astonished Pound asked.
“What do you mean I’m doing it…” Storm Chaser paused as he reached the obvious realization. “Oh yeah!! Champ is gonna be joining me during camp this summer!” The colt picked up an unsuspecting Pound levitating him off the ground and proceeded in swiftly rubbing his knuckles on Pound’s mane, ruffing up his hair.
“Why are you going? I thought the camp was for those who needed to learn to fly. You can fly perfectly well! Not only that but you’re older than most of the ponies at the camp”
“Yeah yeah I know,” Storm Chaser sighed in disdain. “But as it turns out, in order to even be considered for a Wonderbolt now, you have to do the stupid little and turn in an assessment for it. And because I was born a few months before they passed this new rule, I wasn't exempt from it!”
After explaining why he was going, Storm Chaser simply shrugged all the negativity off. “Well at least I get to show off, and if I’m good enough, they might let me out early, with all the attention to boot. Of course, that is of course, if you don’t beat me to the punch first, Champ!”
“Well you don’t have to worry about me stealing your thunder. I’m not a good flyer at all.” Pound began downing himself, which has grown into a habit for him. “ Didn't even want to go in the first place. I’ll only be a waste of space.” “Hey kid, don’t say such crap!” Storm Chaser yelled seemingly offended by Pounds statement. Pound leaped back suddenly startled by Storm Chaser’s sudden mood swing.
“I will not tolerate that kind of thinking coming from you! Champs don’t quit before the game even started! Champs don’t down themselves like that! Why do you think I gave you that name?”
“Because it’s a pet name that older colts give to younger ones?”
Storm Chaser smacked Pound on the top of his head, hard enough so he could feel it, yet soft enough to where it wouldn't hurt.
“Wrong! I named you that because you are one. And the sooner you get out of that self-loathing phase and get with the program the sooner you can start making yourself believe that.
“How can I be a champ if I can’t even fly? Not only that, I let ponies walk all over me, I have to have other’s fight my fights, and when no pony is there to help me I just run away. No wonder she thinks so poorly of me?”
“Who, Jubilee?”
“No, not her!” exclaimed Pound, turning away to hide the blush forming on his face. “Though I hope she doesn't think that poorly of me as well. I was actually referring to my sister.”
“Oh her!” Storm Chaser said trotting closer to Pound before patting his head. “Look Champ, you’re still a kid, so it’s only natural to be scared. So don’t beat yourself up about it, especially when you got this awesome Pegasus hanging out with you! Just remember, if you want any of this to rub off on you, I’ll give you lessons free of charge, ‘kay!”
Pound simply smiled and nodded and Storm Chaser returned a very toothy smile back. At times, Pound almost wished he could be his sibling.
“As for your sister, I’m sure she doesn't hate you, just your personality.”
“Oh thanks, that really helps boost my moral,” Pound sarcastically replied.
“What I mean is, although she might not like how you differ, she still loves you as a brother, and at the very least will help you if needed.”
“And how do you know that Storm Chaser?”
“I don’t. I was just trying to cheer you up honestly. I mean if you want to know if it’s true or not, you could go ask her since she’s down by the fields over there.”
“Yeah, maybe you’re…wait what!”
Storm Chaser pointed to where Pound’s sister was. Her and her mint colored friend were piling up some apples they took from the orchard. Now something wasn't adding up.
Wasn't Pumpkin supposed to be grounded? Why is she outside playing? Oh sweet Luna if Mom finds this out…
He found himself caring more about Pumpkin’s well being then he wished to. If there’s one thing that scared him more than the bullies at school, it was an enraged mother.
“Yo Champ, something wrong!?”
Pound found himself wondering if he should care. On one hand, Pumpkin does tease him all the time and ruin some of his stuff, so it would be nice to see some retribution. On another, Nightmare Night was coming up, and he knew Mom wouldn’t let her go if she knew she was out and about with her friend. After thinking on it briefly, he sighed to himself and trotted towards the fields.
“So all we have to do is squeeze the juice out of these apples, put some nocturnal plant seeds in and wammo!! Knocked out for hours!” exclaimed Two Bit picking out some of the apples in the bucket.
“You’re getting way too excited about this,” replied Pumpkin Cake, munching on one of the apples. “Though I will admit it’s a pretty cool idea. Probably our best prank yet.”
“You do mean my best prank ever right!?” Two Bit corrected smugly. It was rewarded with an apple core in the face.
“No Two Twit! Our idea!” Pumpkin quipped sticking her tongue out at him.
“Was it really necessary to throw something probably ridden with your germs at my face? Also, what’s with you calling me Two Twit all the time?”
“You’re not going to die from it so quit complaining. And the name suits you so well; I have to call you that!”
Two Bit rolled his eyes at her comment. “Whatever. Anyways, let’s take a few of these and leave. We only need….hey is that your brother?”
“Huh?” Pumpkin looked at the direction Two Bit was pointing and saw Pound running towards her. Her expression turned sour. “Oh great, he’s here.”
Pound stopped running when he was at a good range and began walking towards them, trying to catch his breath. He inched his way closer to his ever so disapproving sister.
“What do you want Pound?” Pumpkin asked venomously . “I want to know what you’re doing here?” answered Pound, who unlike her sister didn't show too much animosity.
“What do you mean what am I doing here? I’m enjoying the sunshine and playing with my friend like normal ponies do. Is that a problem?!”
“You know what I’m talking about Pumpkin!”
Two Bit looked confusingly at the two trying to understand what was going on. “Uhh, am I missing something important?”
“No Two Bit. It’s just my brother being a nosy little twat!”
“Call me what you will, but you’re betraying Mom’s trust as well as Dad’s by sneaking off like this!”
“Well maybe if Mom didn't give unjust punishments, I wouldn't have to sneak off to do what I want!”
“Wait, so you snuck out here to hang out with me?” Two Bit said impressed, but was ignored by the bickering siblings.
“Unjust? You beat up a schoolmate even when she pleaded for you to stop. Don’t you think that was a little excessive?!”
“Well at least I attempt to defend myself and don’t let others mistreat me! At least I don’t let ponies spit on me or throw rocks at me like a weakling!”
The situation quickly took a personal turn and it was obvious Pound was hurt by Pumpkin’s backlash at him. Two Bit was just standing trying to decide if he should wait the storm out, or just walk away and leave them be.
“You’re impossible!!” Pound shouted, his words more heated then before. “All I’m trying to do is help you and you’re here being as big of an airhead as possible!”
“Well if you really want to help me, how about leaving me alone and go bug one of your other friends! If you even have any that is.”
“Fine then! Stay out here and get caught, see if I care!” Pound turned away and stormed off with a mixture of anger and hurt. Pumpkin watched as her he ran away, her angered face turning into a frown.
“Stupid brother.”
***
“Stupid sister,” Pound mumbled to himself as he trotted away from Pumpkin. He was still angry about the conversation; however, his feelings were damaged the most. Small amounts of tears tried to escape his eyes.
“I was just trying to help her and all she did was mock and discourage me. I don’t know why I even bother. She’s impossible to deal with. Sometimes I just wish…”
“Who are you talking to Pound?”
The voice sounded so familiar to Pound. So soft and concerning. So…angelic. Pound looked up and saw who it was. That light golden mare with crimson flowing curls smiling directly at him. He felt as if his whole world has stopped every time he looked at her. Here he was, standing right in front of his precious Jubilee.
“Oh…um..I was talkin to…uh…hi Jubilee,” Pound responded clumsily and dreamily at the same time, his face completely burning.
“Yes, well hello to you too Pound,” Jubilee answered, politely ignoring how stammered he was. “But I would really like to know what you were rambling about. It sounded like you were frustrated by something and from the dried tears in your eyes I can tell you were upset by something, although that worry is clearly gone now!”
Jubilee winked towards Pound, causing his face to redden even more.
Come on Pound. Why do you always crack around her! Sure she’s the most beautiful girl you’ve ever seen, but she’s still a girl all the same. Just talk to her, produce words and for crying out loud stops babbling like an idiot.
Those inner thoughts were running through his mind and repeating themselves over and over. Taking a deep breath, Pound opened his mouth and began to speak.
“Pumpkin…..uh….she’s um…” What are you doing!? “Well she did….welll I…” Say something! Anything! “I….um…” “She…she…” Why do I always do this!?
“Yo Champ! Why’d you run off little buddy?!”
Storm Chaser flew towards the two ponies. Pound let out a sigh of relief, a little louder than he planned on.
“Why’d you run off like that!? You acted like some pony was gonna kill your sister or something!”
“Oh it was nothing,” Pound rubbed off, relieved that there was some pony he was comfortable talking to around. “If she gets in trouble it will be her own fault.”
Storm Chaser looked puzzled. “What, did she do something bad? Did she steal something? Push an old lady off the steps? Murder a pony!?”
“I highly doubt a little filly would commit murder?” Jubilee stated inserting herself in the conversation. “And hello to you too Storm Chaser!”
“Really? I gotta say hi to you every ten minutes I see your flank walking by?! We see each other like two or three times a day usually,”
“Still, it’s common courtesy. Though I doubt you know anything about that seeing how shrewd you can be at times. What’s worse is that your influences might be rubbing off on poor little Pound here. He didn't even greet me properly!”
Pound looked down at the ground shamefully, feeling terrible that he can’t even talk to some pony who’s supposed to be his friend. “I’m sorry,” was all he could manage to squeak out.
Jubilee saw Pound dwindle into another reclusive state and went towards him to pat his head. “Oh come on Pound, I was only teasin’. I know you were distraught by something so don’t worry about it. So come on, show me that golden smile I like seeing.”
Pound looked up and stared into her gaze, causing a dopey little smile to shine upon his face. Jubilee returned a warm smile as well.
“So, where’s my warm greeting of affection?” whimpered Storm Chaser teasingly. “You let him off the hook and give him the royal smile treatment and yet I get the short end of the stick?”
Jubilee started trotting towards the onyx colt, with a devious smile on her face. “Oh, you want some attention huh? Okay, here…”
She put her hooves on his cheeks.
“you…”
Her face homed in on Storm Chaser’s face, causing the confused colt’s eyes to widen and causing Pound’s face to show signs of sadness and jealousy.
Is she…going to…
“GO!!” And with that, Jubilee shoved Storm Chaser down the hill, giving him little time to react to it. He rolled down for a few seconds before completely stopping with his back arched in the air and his legs over his head.
“I asked for more affection, not a trip to the hospital.”
“Oh trust me Storm, if I wanted to send you to the hospital I would have bucked your skull in with my back hooves.”
“Oh wow you’re a jerk, and an evil one at that!”
“I learned from the best.” The group laughed as Jubilee trotted towards Storm Chaser and reached out a hoof, helping him gets back on all fours. “Anyways, if you two are not doing anything this afternoon, we should hang out for a bit. I’m working for Apple Bloom at the farm while her sis is gone so…”
“Apple Bloom. That’s right!” Pound suddenly remembered what he came to Sweet Apple Acres to do. “I forgot to ask her about joining the CMC!”
“Oh that’s fine, Pound. I’ll tell her you asked about it,” suggested Jubilee.
“Really? You’d do that for me?”
“Sure,” she responded lifting the basket of apples and balancing it on her back. “I have to go back anyways so it’s not that big deal. So, how about it? Wanna hang out with me this afternoon Pound?”
“Uhh…” Again, Pound’s voice gave out on him and he stood stiffly staring at her, his face reddening once more.
“Sure, we’ll hang out with you!” Storm Chaser inserted himself back into the conversation, much to Pound’s appreciation. He always gained a little bit of confidence when Storm Chaser was around. “So while you handle your business, me and Champ over here are gonna go grab a bite to eat!”
“But I just ate not too long ago,” stated Pound
“Well that’s fine. You can just watch me eat then! Come on!”
Storm Chaser grabbed the young colt and began to flap his wings, floating slightly above ground with Pound in his hands. “See ya Jubi!”
“Meet you two later,” Jubilee waved as she saw Storm Chaser carry off Pound. “And if I hear that you dropped him on account of one of your ‘flight training’ tactics, the hospital will be the last place you’ll have to worry about!”
***
“So you are going to head back before you get caught I assume?” questioned Two Bit, carrying the haul of apples that he and Pumpkin decided to pick out for their little concoction.
“Yeah, might as well. Don’t want to get in too much trouble before Nightmare Night. I want to get all the candy I can that night!”
“Oh, so you’re actually listening to your brother for once.”
“No!” Pumpkin exclaimed in an outburst denying any credit to Pound for her wanting to head home. “That whining baby had nothing to do with me wanting to leave!”
“Yeah, cause you have the sense to quit while you’re ahead. If you didn't come up with this brilliant resolution because of your brother, then what made you suddenly want to go home?”
Pumpkin looked Two Bit in the face and let out a smug grin. “Well Two Twit, it’s because the thought of looking at your ugly face any longer than I have to is making me sick. If I’m in my room blowing chunks for no good reason, they’ll know it’s because I snuck out with you.”
“You’re evil you know that? And for Celestia-sake stop calling me that!”
“What are you gonna do about it Two Twit,”
“You better watch it! I might put something in your food that gives you the bad case of hay fever.”
“Oh, so you’re gonna make me sneeze to death?! Hardly a threat!”
“Hay fever with the Cutie Pox thrown in!”
“You wouldn't.”
“I would.”
The two young children glared at each other briefly before Two Bit broke the glare and gave her a subtle smile.
“Well anyways, I’m going to go and make the stuff for Nightmare Night. Try not to get into too much trouble delinquent!”
“Don’t worry, I’ll just put the blame on you and say you influenced me to do it!”
There was no need for formal goodbyes between the two. Their jokes and quips towards each other handled what they were trying to accomplish. As her minty friend faded from the fields, she sighed to herself a little.
Guess I have to go back now.
She casually walked home biting down on another ripe apple she had found on the ground. As she was getting ready to leave, she was greeted by the little sister of Applejack who was walking directly towards the barn.
“Howdy Pumpkin,” Apple Bloom greeted, “How ya doing today.”
“I’m alright AB. Two Bit and I are done…playing for the day so I’m just heading back home.”
“Ahh. How’s your brother doing? Any luck with those cutie marks?”
“He’s his same wimpy self and no,” Pumpkin responded. “Sometimes I kind of wish I could disown him as a brother.”
“Whoa there missy! Don’t ya think that’s a tad bit harsh to say?”
“But he’s so gutless. I have to fight all of his fights for him and I’m always the one getting in trouble! He’s more damage than he’s worth, a liability of a brother.” She sat on the soft grass and folded her front hooves. “And he’s the one who gets all the better treatment. Flight school, parents who never scold him, and he’s never in trouble.”
Apple Bloom had Pumpkin’s problem pinned from hearing this. “Sounds like a certain some pony might be jealous of her brother.”
“No I’m not”, a pouting Pumpkin responded poking her lips out.
“Ah, ain’t that adorable. You envy your brother!”
“Stop it! No I don’t!”
Apple Bloom sat next to Pumpkin, who still had her hooves folded and looked away. “Not fair,”
“Don’t be so down. You’re not the only one who has the envy fever. I've talked to Pound before, and turns out he’s a little jealous of you too.”
“What, really?”
“Eyup! Something ‘bout you being braver then him and for not being a ‘worthless weakling’ as he put it. He takes it to heart when you call him that ya know.”
Pumpkin’s expression turned to that of remorse. She would never admit it, but deep down, she cared deeply about her brother’s feelings and began to feel guilty for the nasty things she said to him earlier. However, her stubbornness would not let her sincerity show.
“Well, if that is true, then why does he still act like a wimp instead of toughening up!?”
“Not really easy to change your personality on the fly now is it? If so, you wouldn't be the little deviant ya are now.”
Pumpkin, as much as she wanted to, could not argue with Apple Bloom’s logic.
“Now, about the cutie mark situation, Ah be happy to accept you anytime you want to join. There’s bound ta be a group you can fit into and working in a group might help ya find your talent faster.”
“As much as I appreciate the offer, I don’t really play well with others.”
“Ah suppose not,” Apple Bloom stood up on her hooves and stretched out a bit. “But tha offer still stands if you change your mind. Ah really hope you do.”
“Ok, I’ll think about it,” responded Pumpkin as she got up and began to make her way home. “But I’m curious, why do you care so much about me joining?”
Apple Bloom looked at the young filly with a big grin on her face. “Cus you remind me of one of my friends when we were in the Cutie Mark Crusaders.”
***
The sun was setting in Ponyville’s square and every pony who worked on the booths started wrapping up their final preparations. Nightmare Night was just around the corner and the excitement was pouring out of the citizens. Not too far outside the square were Storm Chaser and Pound, who was splayed out on the tree, groaning a bit.
“Wow, Champ you didn’t react to well back there!” the onyx colt laughed, eating a bag of hay-fries he bought on the way to town.
“Maybe because you dropped me towards the lake on our way towards here expecting me to fly,” moaned a sickly looking Pound.
“I caught you didn't I? I told you that nothing bad would happen.”
“Try telling that to my stomach,” Pound’s cheeks slightly began to bulge. Fortunately, his stomach was stable enough to prevent it. “I need to lay down for a bit.”
Pound stayed motionless for a while Storm Chaser continued munching away at his hay-fries. Eventually, a familiar pony trotted towards their little meeting place.
“Hello guys,” Jubilee smiled, until she saw Pound lying over the tree with a sickly expression on his face. A look of concern showed upon her face. “Pound, what’s wrong with you?”
“Nothing…” Pound couldn't get a very convincing word out, giving Jubilee an idea of what the problem was.
“Let me guess. The idiot Pegasus beside you decided to give you a little ‘flight training’ huh?”
“No…Jubilee, it’s quite alri….” Pound tried to finish his statement before he was interrupted by Storm Chaser and an upset stomach.
“Yeah, and?”
Jubilee slowly began climbing up the tree with stern look on her face. “Remember when I told you not to do that to poor Pound here?”
“Sure, and you made an idol threat to boot with it.”
She scooted over towards Storm Chaser, put her hoof on his chest, and pushed him off the tree, causing him to fall headfirst on the ground.
“Oh, for the love of Celestia, stop trying to kill me!”
“Not if you keep trying to kill Pound here!” Jubilee snapped rubbing pounds mane to comfort him. He hid his face the best he could to avoid her seeing him blush, but could not help but to let out a purring sound, causing Jubilee to giggle a bit.
“And besides, you've fallen from thousands of feet at top speeds and claimed you were alright. Falling off a tree should not hurt you too much.”
Storm Chaser stuck his tongue out at her before realizing something. It was something that was far more serious than him falling off a tree.
As he readjusted himself, Storm Chaser began floating back upon the tree and began to utter a message to Jubilee, “You owe me a batch of hay-fries.”
The trio remained perched on the tree talking for several hours. Pounds stomach decided to relax a bit and he was able to sit back up again, enjoying the conversation with his older friends. Storm Chaser was still food-less and complained about it briefly, but eventually stopped talking about it, thanks mainly to him being ignored by his golden friend sitting beside him. It was getting late in the afternoon and as the sun began to sleep the beauty of the sunset began to shroud Ponyville in its beauty.
“There’s something about the sunset that just feels so nice and warm,” Jubilee replied admiring the work of Celestia. “Wouldn’t you agree Pound?”
“Yeah,” Pound dreamily replied. He was able to react better with Storm around to help boost his confidence but even with the added boost, he still reduced himself to a lovesick puppy admiring the mare sitting next to him.
Storm Chaser yawned. “Meh, it’s alright. Nothing too remarkable about it. The sun just rises and set.
“Well I wouldn't expect a simple minded barbarian like you to understand,” Jubilee jokingly mocked, returning to talking to Pound. “What do you think it is? Is it the inviting feeling it gives off, or maybe the final illumination it gives before the moon shines its glow?"
“Yeah,” Pound responded once more, but with enough sense to realize it wasn't a simple yes or no question, he quickly snapped himself out of his dreamy state and gave a more reasonable, albeit clumsy answer.
“Um...I mean, probably the inviting feeling. Yeah, that one!” He was worried that Jubilee would find his response awkward, but she simply smiled back and petted his head.
“Yeah, I think so too.”
Storm Chaser gagged a bit. “Uh, come on what’s with this mushy garbage talk? It’s almost sickening! If you want to talk about the sunset so much, just go on a date.”
This teasing from Storm Chaser made Pounds face heat up at the thought of dating his crush, with Jubilee’s slightly annoyed face.
“I don’t whine about your carelessness when it comes to flying, so I would appreciate if you did the same thing.”
“You just complained now though,” Storm Chaser replied back, receiving an eye roll from Jubilee.
“Can’t help that I’m born to love the thrill of flying, even in dangerous situations. Speaking of…” Storm Chaser stares towards Pound, who too him was a tad too giddy around Jubilee, “stopped worrying about flight camp yet?!”
And with that, the giddy, childish expressions Pound was giving off turned into a more uninterested look. “No, not really. Still not really interested in potentially plummeting to the ground.”
“Come on Champ! You gotta get over this irrational fear of falling to your doom!”
“Yeah, and dropping him from the skies is going to help him get over it faster!” defended Jubilee, turning back to Pound. “But as much as I hate to admit it, he has a point. You’re going to need to learn how to fly sometime or another, and it’s easier to learn it while you’re young.”
“I guess.”
“Come on Pound. I for one kind of envy you two. I’m just an earth pony so I’m not capable of the abilities you have. Wings are freedom for those who have them.”
“They might represent freedom for those who can use them,” Pound began, “but for some pony like me, they are a curse; a reminder of what you should be but are not.”
“Wow you’re depressing Champ!” Storm Chaser grinned. “I might have to find a new rookie to hang out with if you keep bumming me out like that!”
Pound looked towards the ground apologetically, “Sorry.”
“Don’t be, I was just messing with you. There ain't another pony I’d rather have as my little rookie than you Champ. Just remember, need some flying lessons or help during the camp, you can always count on good old Storm Chaser.”
“Thanks! I’ll hold you to that.”
There was something to be admired by Storm Chaser’s confidence, and the more Pound hung around him, the more he wanted to be like him.
“I’m not sure I trust you giving Pound anymore flying lessons, especially not on top of Cloudsdale,” Jubilee said worriedly.
“You seem to believe I’ll drop him from a thousand feet in the air.”
“I wouldn’t put it behind you.”
I’m not crazy Jubilee! I won’t do anything that will cripple or kill the kid. I do know restraint and you know that!”
There was some offense taken in Storm Chaser’s voice, who didn't take lightly that Jubilee thought he would purposely hurt Pound in a reckless way. The crimson maned mare, even though she would never say it outright, did trust Pound with Storm Chaser regardless of how reckless he acted at times. Because if there’s one thing he never would do is put a child’s life in danger, especially not Pound.
“Yeah, I do,” Jubilee finally responded, causing Storm Chaser to calm down a bit. “But still, try not to do anything too careless with him okay? ” “Will do,” Storm Chaser answered swiftly, and the trio sat in silence watching the remaining sun set. After a few moments of silence, Pound let out a yawn, showing signs of drowsiness.
“Sounds like some pony is getting a little sleepy,” Jubilee hummed.
“Mmm hmm.” Pound mumbled.
“Hah, even our little Champ can’t stay up too long without sleep catching up to him!” Storm Chaser laughed. “Well, it has been a long day for him, plus tomorrow is Nightmare Night, so he probably wants to be well rested before the event. Want me to get you home Champ.”
“No, I’ll be fine,” Pound kindly refused. “I’m awake enough to get home.” He stumbled a bit trying to stand up.
“That may be so, but I sure don’t trust you getting off this tree in your state.” Storm Chaser picked up Pound and lowered him towards the ground. “Alright buddy, off you go.”
“Thank you. And see you later. Bye Jubilee!”
“See you tomorrow Pound.” Jubilee waved back still perched on the tree.
As Pound began to walk back home, he began to wonder if Pumpkin decided to heed his warning and go home before she caused too much trouble. He highly doubts she did, but he wanted to at least have some faith that she wouldn't be so stubborn. However, his concern faded when he realized something.
Was I able to comfortably talk to Jubilee back there?
***
Pumpkin had been home for a few hours, making sure that there was no trace of her leaving in sight. The windows were closed, her hoofsteps on the powdery kitchen floor were wiped clean, and she carefully made her way back to her room.
“Ah, conflict adverted!” she said proudly to herself. “And now all I have to do is wait until tomorrow for Pinkie to get back!”
She lied back on her bed and let out a satisfied smile on her face anticipating the pink mares return. “She’s so awesome. She’s one of the funniest ponies I’ve ever known. So random and…well…Pinkie-ish! Kinda wish I could replace my brother with her.”
As she dwelled on the awesomeness of Pinkie, she began to feel the sleep she lost earlier plus the added new weight of tiredness get to her and her vision blurred into restful sleep.
“..kin.”
A similar voice invaded her sleep, and kept calling out even when she tried to ignore it.
“Pumpkin….down here now!”
Uh, what now? Pumpkin rubbed her eyes and casually trotted downstairs and to the source of the voices, which happened to be Cup and Carrot.
“Oh, hi Mommy and Daddy,” she said sleepily and innocently. She was pretty calm, until she saw the look on her mother’s. Even her father had the look, which was uncommon for him. It was a look of…anger and disappointment.
“Um, what’s wrong?” Pumpkin asked, now a little nervous that her parents were giving her a negative look.
“Why don’t you tell us?” Cup Cake started sternly. “You should know better than us what’s wrong.”
“What, I don’t under…”
“I hope those apples were worth sneaking out of the house Pumpkin.”
Pumpkin froze and a look of terror was shown on her now pale face. “How…how did you…”
To give Pumpkin an explanation, or to torture her with the long wait for a definitive punishment, Cup began to explain how they came to find out about Pumpkin’s little jailbreak.
Earlier that day, the Cakes were making their way home after a day of restocking on supplies. The load was pretty light on Cup, and the polar opposite on Carrot.
“Um, sweetie, mind taking off a few bags please?” Carrot pleaded. His speed was significantly weighed down since he was carrying most of the flour, sugar, and other ingredients. Cup was carrying the food coloring and decorations, much lighter than her husband’s load.
“But I have a lot of bags too dear.”
“Yeah, but none are nearly as heavy as mine. Come on honey bun, cut me some slack!”
“Aww, is my strong, hunky husband losing some of his steam.” Carrot grunted a little, as the bags seemed to get heavier as he kept going.
“I guess I need to give you some motivation huh?” Cup walked towards her straining husband and gave him a light peck on the lips, teasing him. “That motivation enough?”
“Sort of,” Carrot answered slightly blushing. “But maybe if you take off at least one of these bags…”
“Okay, I’ll carry at least one more.” She used her mouth to pick up an extra bag and set it on her back. “Anything extra you want?”
“Well, unless you want to take the rest of the bags…”
“And I don’t.”
“…then how about baking something nice tonight before we have to go tomorrow morning.”
“Why not. I guess you deserve something special before we go. What about apple fritters with cinnamon? You and Pumpkin seem to love those.”
Carrot licked his lips at the thought of eating them. “Yep, with a large dollop of whip cream over it! Pleasure to the mouth and stomach!”
“Well then it’s settled. We’ll head towards Sweet Apple Acres, buy some fresh apples, and fix you two some fritters.”
“Like the sound of that!” Carrot grinned giddily. “And it’s also nice to see you lighten up a bit.”
“Yeah well I guess even the witch of the household has a soft spot.” The couple laughed and headed towards Sweet Apple Acres.
Once they arrived, the quickly sought out Apple Bloom, who was watching over the farm while her sister was away.
“Excuse me Apple Bloom, but would you sell us some of your best apples here?” Cup asked the young mare bucking away at the trees.
“No problem!” Apple Bloom answered. “How many do you want?”
“Two baskets full. Oh, and would you mind delivering them to our store?”
“Enope. Ah’ll have Big Bro on that asap.” Apple Bloom went to find Big Mac and gave him a set of instructions. He loaded up the apples as well as some of the extra baggage Carrot was carrying (to his delight) and began to carry them to Sugercube Corner.
“So, what’s the occasion? Filling in another order?”
“Oh no, we’re just making something nice for the kids and husband before we go to Canterlot tomorrow.”
“Ah, the Cake twins.” Apple Bloom chimed. “Those two are delightful children, even the rambunctious one. Ah actually saw them earlier today.”
“Yeah, they certainly are…wait did you say they?” Cup’s pleasant voice droned into a suspicious tone. “You mean just Pound and his friend right?”
“No, Ah’m sure I saw Pumpkin too. She was playin’ with some minty colored colt and eating a few apples before Pound came and talked ta her. Not sure what they was talking ‘bout, but from tha looks of it, it wasn't pretty; Pound walked off with sort of an angry look on his face.”
“Really?”
“Eyup. Wonder what they were talkin’ ‘bout. Guess Ah’ll never know. Anyways, the price of the apples and delivery is gonna run you at 25 bits.”
“Yeah, thanks.” Cup put the bits on one of the barrels towards the farm, and looked at her husband, who shared the same look of disappointment she did. “Carrot?”
“Yeah, I know. I just can’t believe she would do that.”
“We’ll fix that mighty quick though. Come on!”
After her mother explained, Pumpkin found herself sweating profusely, fearing the worst.
“Well…at least I got home before you guys did right?” Pumpkin nervously laughed hoping that maybe a small bit of humor would help her get out of the situation. The expressions on her parent’s faces said otherwise.
“Pumpkin I am not in the mood for jokes! And furthermore, I am highly upset that you would disobey us like that!” Cup lectured angrily. “It would appear you don’t take our punishments seriously enough, so I guess we’ll have to introduce some harsher consequences! Your two month punishment is now extended to a year.”
“What!” Pumpkin didn't like the sound of that at all. “But I…”
“And on top of that, you can forget about going to Nightmare Night tomorrow, because you lost all your holiday privileges!”
This was the breaking point for Pumpkin. For the first time in a long time, a punishment actually began to make her tear up.
“No, no, no not that!” Pumpkin began pleading helplessly. She hadn't felt this vulnerable in a while. “Pinkie was supposed to spend that entire day with me! She was going to take me to that haunted house, trick or treating, and all sorts of things!”
“Well I guess you’ll have to explain to her why you can’t go then,” Cup retorted sternly.
“But…but that’s not fair. Dad!” This was her last hope; her dad’s favoritism.
“Don’t Dad me!” Carrot responded. It wasn't as angry in tone as his wife’s but it was just as stern. “Calling me isn't going to help you. In fact, I actually suggested the punishment!”
And with that, Pumpkin’s last hope was crushed, and so was her spirit. “What? But why?”
“You seem to lack respect for your mother, and by that definition you lack respect for me! Not only that but you've betrayed her both of our trust by deliberately disobeying us. You need harsher consequences since the ones you have don’t seem to be affecting you much, so that’s why you’re spending a year grounded and I stand by my decision!”
Tears were flowing down Pumpkin’s face. She was torn, broken, and in a slight sense, angry.
“Fine! I thought there was at least one reasonable pony in this Celestia forsaken place, but it turns out you’re worse than mother! I hate you! I..hate…!” She choked on her words and couldn't finish. With the realization of her confinement, she stormed upstairs with her face still filled with salty tears. Carrot’s face went from the stern angry look into a sad and remorseful one.
“That felt terrible,” he sighed sadly. “I did not enjoy that one bit.”
“Neither did I honey,” Cup tried to comfort her husband. “But like you said, she needs to learn the consequences for her actions. Plus I’m sure she didn't mean what she said; she’s just a child lashing out due to being upset.”
“I really hope so Cup. I also hope I don’t actually need to keep her locked up for a year.”
Cup kissed Carrot and softly smiled at him. “You can call it off whenever you feel it is necessary honey.”
The door opened and Pound walked into the house, rubbing sleep from his eyes but also greeting his parents with enthusiasm.
“Hey Mom and Da…” he was cut off by a loud slam of a door coming from upstairs, and what he was sure to be a picture frame falling from the wall. “Let me guess, she got caught.”
His parents simply nodded, so he didn't bother to go further into detail. He simply headed up to the room he and his sister shared, slowly opening the door, and looked at the back of Pumpkin since her face was hidden towards the wall.
“Umm, Pumpkin…”
“Leave me alone Pound! I’m not in the mood for one of your ‘I told you so’ speeches.”
“But I wasn't going to…”
“I said leave me alone!” Pumpkin threw a pillow at Pound, which he avoided by lowering his head.
He decided it was best not to press the matter and returned the pillow to her bed, careful not to get to close in fear of her bucking him in the face. He then walked back towards his bed and cuddled under the covers trying to get some sleep which was hard to do with the constant crying coming from his sister.
The lofty autumn breeze blew on the most anticipated afternoon of the month. Nightmare Night was coming in a few hours and the ponies of the city were gathering their costumes and stocking up on candy. Normally, Sugercube Corner would be open with many homemade candies and treats given out during the holiday. However, that night was a bit different. Cup and Carrot had a full set of orders to deliver and cater for the citizens of Fillydelphia, and they would not be back until late the next afternoon. They were making sure they had everything in order while Carrot frantically gathered everything they needed for the trip. As Cup listed the things they had to take, Carrot responded.
“Truffles?”
“Check!”
“Meringue pie?”
“Checkaroo!”
“Layered cupcakes?”
“Each layer crafted divinely and to perfection! Oh and the desserts are here too.”
“As much as I enjoy your flattery, we should probably hurry up and get these on the train before we miss it. Pound, come here.”
Pound was sitting in the living room eating a cup of peanuts before he heard his mother calling him. He set the cup down and headed into the shop. “Yes mam?”
“I want you to be on your best behavior while we’re gone. Don’t stay out too late, don’t eat your candy past 9, and when you go out trick or treating, never leave Pinkie ok?” Pound nodded. Upon receiving orders from his mother, he also received a note from his mother.
Pinkie Pie, As much as we regret to have to do this, Pumpkin is being grounded for her misbehavior and cannot participate in Nightmare Night tonight. I know you were looking forward to taking them both, but please understand it was something we needed to do. We will allow her to eat a few pieces of candy that you get during the event, but nothing over 3 pieces. Sorry for the inconvenience. Cup Cake
P.S.: Please don’t eat our supplies this time! It’s hard enough to keep up with one loose cannon let alone some pony that will go ballistic off of too much sugar.
“Make sure she gets this Pound,”
The golden gray Pegasus looked at the letter with slight sadness. As much as his sister irritated him, he still felt bad for her. This wouldn't be an easy thing for him to give Pinkie, but he was never one to say no to his parents. “I’ll make sure she gets it.”
Cup leaned down and gave Pound a kiss on the forehead. “Thank you. We should be back by tomorrow afternoon, and there is quiche and fruit salad in the kitchen for you two to eat when you are hungry. Honey! Let’s go!”
“In a minute!” Carrot called back. He went upstairs into Pumpkin’s room to see the little filly curled up on her bed staring at the wall. “Pumpkin, are you okay?”
She didn't respond. She didn't even turn around to see who it was. It was obvious that Pumpkin was ignoring him and hoping that he would go away. Regardless, Carrot sat by her on the bed and continued talking.
“Sweetie, I know you’re still upset about the punishment, but I want to let you know that you are still my little angel. You just have to learn how to behave yourself otherwise you’ll never have any privileges.” Pumpkin didn't move. Her eyes remained planted on the wall, even as her father gave her a kiss on the cheek, forcing her to see him slightly. “Remember this Pumpkin, I’ll always love you, and if you be good…” he looked around to make sure his wife wasn't around to hear, then began to whisper in Pumpkin’s ear, “I’ll sneak you back some of the remaining treats from the catering. Sounds good?”
Pumpkin’s ears perked up a bit. She always did like the snacks her father brought back, and the thought of having something sweet to cancel the bitterness she felt. For the first time in hours, she looked at Carrot and gave him a simplistic yet clear yes.
“Well, it’s a deal then,” Carrot smiled rubbing the top of the young filly’s mane, messing it up a bit.
“Honey, hurry up! We’re going to be late for the train!” Cup was growing impatient by her husband’s absence.
“Coming!” Carrot gave Pumpkin one more kiss before trotting down the stairs and patting Pounds mane. “Hold down the fort until Pinkie gets here Pound.”
Pound saluted his father, gaining a small smile from his parents. With the desserts secured and being transported to the train, the couple left Sugercube Corner, leaving only Pound and Pumpkin inside the house.
With Nightmare Night only a few hours away, and Pinkie coming at any moment, he thought it would be best to go ahead and get ready for the night. He put the note that was written on the counter and made his way upstairs. Once again, the only thing that was there was a very silent Pumpkin staring at the wall with no intention of leaving that spot.
“You know, you probably should go get something to eat,” Pound suggested to her sister, who hasn't moved since her punishment.
“Not hungry,” came a cold reply from Pumpkin.
“Well you could at least get up and stretch a bit or something. You've been in the bed all day.”
“What’s the point? I have nothing to do anyways.”
“Maybe, but it’s not really productive not doing anything for so long. Even a simple movement and walk in the house could…”
“You’re not my parents! Stop acting like them!” Pumpkin turned sharply towards her brother giving him a look irritation.
“I was just giving a suggestion,” Pound defended himself.
“If I wanted your suggestion, I would have asked for it. Now shut up and leave me alone!”
“I just don’t get you,” Pound looked at her sister with slight annoyance at her attitude towards him. “You’re being a hostile baby towards me because you messed up and got in trouble.”
“Oh thanks for reminding me my oh so intelligent brother,” Pumpkin mocked, “I guess I learned my lesson. I’ll sit here and reflect on this all night while you and Pinkie go out having fun and eating bucking candy all night!”
“It’s not my fault that you got caught! So why are you getting mad at me for?!”
“Just leave me alone,” she turned back towards the wall sighing a bit. “You better have enough fun for the both of us. And if you don’t get enough candy for me, you’ll regret every waking moment for the rest of your life.”
Pound rolled his eyes at her threat. Though not idol in the slightest, the regret would probably amount to Pumpkin putting hot sauce on all of his favorite snacks.
“That’s it I’m done talking to you.” Pound rolled his eyes and began to leave the room.
“Where are you going?” a curious Pumpkin asked. “ Shouldn't you be getting ready to stuff yourself tonight?”
“As much as I would like to get started on that, I need to take care of some personal business first.”
“Personal business? Why are you being so secretive about it? What could you possibly be doing that’s so personal you can’t…”
“I’m going to the bathroom okay!” Pound finally blurted. “You happy now?”
Pumpkin’s gagging gave him his answer. “Uhh, I didn't want to know that you idiot!”
Pound walked out of the room and mumbled to himself, “then why did you ask jerk?”
***
A couple of silent hours passed inside of Sugercube Corner. The twins didn't say a word to each other and just went about their business, Pound reading a Daring Doo book and Pumpkin drinking a box of juice while lying on her bed. Their silence was brought to an abrupt end when they heard a door creak open. There wasn't a sound afterwards.
“Um, hello?” Pound called out, but with no answer returning.
“Hello!?” Still no reply. Pound was growing a little weary.
“I don’t think any pony can hear your low voice from all the way up here. Go down and see who it is!”
“But…what if it’s a thief down their? I mean…it’s not normal for any pony to walk inside unnoticed.” Pound’s voice was a bit shaky, legitimately nervous of what might be downstairs.
This upset Pumpkin. “Oh for the love of...even inside our own house you’re a little pansy! Fine, I’ll go down and see who it is.”
For the first time that day (she made Pound get her juice for her), she got off of her bed and went downstairs. Pound watched as she vanished from his vision and waited for some sort of reaction. The one he got wasn't one he wanted to hear.
“AAAAHHH!!” Pumpkin shrieked at the top of her lungs before being muffled.
Now Pound was worried. He broke into a cold sweat and began to trot in place frantically.
Oh Luna oh Luna! What am I gonna do? I can’t let her get hurt! I can’t! But that…whatever is down there…might… Pound’s mind was racing. He wanted to find an easy solution, but none came to him and deep down he knew there was only one option.
She could be hurt! I can’t stand here and do nothing! Stop being a pansy and help her!
He darted downstairs to take care of the intruder. Oddly enough, he didn't find anypony inside the house. He grabbed a roller from the counter with his wings and slowly began to patrol the area.
“Who are you!? What do you want!?” Pound tried to sound tough, but his voice and tone displayed fear. He was constantly shaky and jumpy throughout his scouting of downstairs. After about a few minutes of searching, his vision was completely destroyed by two hooves over his eyes, sending him into a panic.
“No! Please let me go!” Pound was flailing around, kicking and screaming as the intruder bounded Pound so he couldn't move. After not being able to move, the unwanted visitor whispered in his ears.
“Guess who!”
The giggly tone in the intruder’s voice turned lowered Pound’s fear to nothing but embarrassment.
“Pinkie!”
The bouncy mare let go of the victim at hand. “You guessed! Hey Pumpkin, he guessed it! Told you he would!”
“Fine I guess he did,” Pumpkin giggled coming from behind the counter. “But not without a bit of a struggle first! ‘No! Please No! I don’t want to be kidnapped!’”
Pumpkin and Pinkie fell on the floor laughing as Pound stood with his cheeks red in embarrassment.
“Yeah yeah, really funny! You almost gave me a heart attack by the way!” Pound exclaimed in indignation.
Pumpkin teased him more while sticking her tongue out at him, while Pinkie, although still giggling, decided to apologize.
“Oh noes! Can’t have Poundy mad at me tonight when we’re supposed to have fun!” She patted Pound’s head rapidly.
Pinkie was always full of energy and quite often bouncy, even when there was nothing to really be excited about. The twins often wondered if maybe Pinkie’s blood was just made of pure sugar. In fact, Pound asked at one point, but was only given one of her Pinkie Pie answers.
Gasp! My bloods made of sugar!? Well that would explain why I’m always so bouncy and eccentric except for early mornings when I’m still groggy and sleepy but that doesn't take to long for me to get out of that, though for sugar my blood doesn't taste sweet…I once scratched myself and put my hoof in my mouth and it oddly didn't taste like sugar at all! It tasted metalish in a way, or maybe sugar is metal that they sweetened…or maybe…
She went on and on and on about the subject, causing Pound to drop it entirely and concluding that whatever she was made of, it certainly didn't follow logic.
“Oh, and speaking of tonight, you two should get in costume! We got to get out there early if we’re going to get all the good candy!”
Pumpkin cringed a bit. Her sadness returned to her when she realized that she would have to explain why she couldn't go. And if there’s one thing Pumpkin didn't like, it was making Pinkie sad.
“Well, Pinkie, you see…”
“Pumpkin was being lazy today, so she didn't really get her outfit together and ready completely yet.” Pound interrupted causing Pumpkin to look at him in shock.
“Not ready!? How can you not be ready, you were even more excited for this night than I was!” Pinkie added. “We got to get your costume ready asap! This is priority!!”
“Uh, Pinkie, we still have about 2 hours before the event starts.”
“But if we don’t get done early, we won’t be able to get any of the good candy! I refuse to let any pony rob me of my well-earned candy!” With a new objective, Pinkie darted towards the stairs, immediately rushing back to ask Pumpkin something.
“Where do you keep the costume at again?”
“In the closet on the right by the bedroom,” she answered still in shock of what her brother has done.
“Okey Dokey then! Be back in a jiffy!” Pinkie vanished again, and a puzzled Pumpkin turned towards her brother.
“Yo Pound, why did you do that?” she questioned.
“Do what? All I did was tell her that you needed some extra help to get ready faster. You know how impatient she is, especially when treats are on the line.”
“But…I’m grounded and…the note…and…”
“Oh yeah the note,” Pound scratched the back of his head and continued to explain, “well, turns out I forgot I still had it with me on my way to the bathroom, and upon flushing, I realized the note was spiraling down as well. So, with no note, I figured what’s the point of telling her?”
Pumpkin felt extremely warm inside. If she had a sense of vulnerability, she would have hugged him then and there. However, she would never give her brother that sense of satisfaction or at least not that deep.
“Well, that was kind of cool of you I guess,” she thanked the best way she wanted to. “Though I have to say, you’re either gaining some confidence or turning into a fool. You do know Mom will grill you out for this right?”
Pound already knew this was a fact. He was never the one to get on Cup’s bad side but when he did manage, like sneaking snacks at late night or getting caught up in one of Pumpkin’s silly schemes, she would send fear he never would wish on even the worst of criminals. And here he was, risking facing that just so his sister can enjoy herself for a night.
“Against better judgment and logic, I decided to ignore the fact that I will be…punished,” Pound squeaked out the last word and shivered a bit. Even if he desired to turn back, which he often told himself he wanted to, they were too far in to just not go with it.
“Well, again thanks! Yes, I’m going to get to go to Nightmare Night!”
“Hold on before you get too excited though,” Pound stated. “I’m not doing all this for free you know.”
“Oh, so there’s a catch huh? Guess I can’t blame you on that one. So what’s the deal.”
“Well there are two things. The first is you have to stop being cruel to me and insulting me every chance you get.”
“Fair enough I guess. What’s the other thing you want from me?”
Pound began to smile a bit and walked towards his sister, “Well, the next thing is while we’re out trick or treating, you have to give me all of your Mocha Bombs.”
Pumpkin jumped back when hearing Pound’s request as if she was being asked to do the impossible.
“No way!” Pumpkin refused, “I’m not letting you have those. They’re my favorite!”
“Well they are also mine as well! Last year you went into my stash and ate them all, leaving only those liquorice hard candies.”
“Well you let them sit there for half a year so I assumed you didn't want them! I refuse to give you my favorite candy!” Pumpkin folded her hooves and resisted with great opposition.
“First off, I was saving them, something you never could do past the first day. Second, this isn't up for debate. I’m risking enough as it is to let you have fun, so I want a decent reward for it. But, if you don’t want to go I can always tell Pinkie…”
“NO!” Pumpkin blurted out a little louder than she intended, causing the pink mare upstairs to respond even louder.
“No!? You really don’t think I should use a hockey mask tonight!!? Aww, but last time they had a scream out of it!”
The twins were slightly confused, but brushed it off quickly and returned to the topic at hand.
“Okay fine, you can have the Mocha Bombs, too,” Pumpkin groaned as Pound let a victorious yes leak out of his lips. “I hope you choke on it too.”
***
Luna’s radiant moon lit up the streets of Ponyville, and under its gaze were hundreds of civilians enjoying the night of fun and fright. All the ponies were dressed up in a variety of costumes and going around enjoying the night that was ahead. In the midst of the commotion there were three eager ponies all walking together. Pumpkin was dressed in a giant pumpkin with a tiara on her head, Pound was dressed as his favorite fictional character Sherclop Holmes, and Pinkie was dressed as a giant rubber chicken, talking at them all throughout the walk.
“…and then on my way here I ended up seeing Jacky! She seems to be taking being in charge of the farm really well, though she had to leave it to Apple Bloom while she was out selling her apples to support it but you know how she is. Always on the go recently!”
Pumpkin was listening intently to the hyperactive pink bomb hopping by the twins. “Sweet! Did you see any others? Did ya?”
“Hmm…nope nopony else! I did see advertisements for Sweetie Belle all over and a letter from Rarity saying she’s super excited to see her in show! The other’s I haven’t heard from but I’m sure they’ll show up eventu….oh look, CARAMEL APPLES!”
The sight of a delectable treat sent Pinkie dashing towards the stand leaving the two young siblings to keep each other company.
“Well, seeing how Pinkie might be busy for a while, want to check out some of the stands and booths?” Pound suggested.
“Eh, why not,” Pumpkin and Pound trotted along the strip, seeing ponies of all types enjoying themselves. There were booths where the town could bob for apples, face paint, and even stick their hands in fake gore to dig for goodies. Of course, Pumpkin decided to participate, digging both of her hooves into the green goop and swirling around looking. After some time was spent, the twins decided to simply walk around and take a brief break.
“You are getting way too excited over that fake eyeball you found,” Pound stated disgustingly before Pumpkin gave him a mischievous smile.
“Oh, you don’t like it much?” she teased pulling the eyeball outside of the container and squeezing it between her hooves. “You don’t like how squishy it is?”
“Okay, stop that!” Pound nearly gagged watching Pumpkin constantly squeezed and mashed the watery looking eyeball. “You’re creeping me out a bit.”
“Well isn’t that the point of Nightmare Night, to be creepy?”
“Doesn’t mean you have to go overboard with it.”
“Quit being such a baby!” Pumpkin huffed as they walked past many of the booths. “Can’t wait to go to that haunted house with Pinkie! Heard it was scary! Like, pulse poundingly scary!”
Pound gulped knowing that Pumpkin would drag him in there. “It..it can’t be all that bad.”
“Pfft! Not all that bad he says!” Pumpkin eccentrically began to explain everything she heard. “It’s the scariest haunted amusement in all of Equestria! Chainsaw psychos…”
Oh Luna!
“…zombie’s gnawing at the victims’ skull…”
Oh Luna oh Luna!
“And even a disfigured pony who feeds on children!”
"Oh good Celestia Pumpkin! What’s with you and these creepy obsession with morbid stuff!"
This was the giddiest Pumpkin has been in a long time. The thrill of being scared senseless by nasty ghoulish monsters made her grin from ear to ear. “It’s going to be great!”
“You certainly won’t be disappointed Pumpkin.” The familiar minty Two Bit was sitting behind one of his booths with bottles of cider on the table top. He seemed to be proud of himself, as he stroked his fake long white beard he had for the night.
“Hey Two Twit! Chose to dress as a lame scientist tonight I see?” Pumpkin taunted causing the minty colt to stare sharply at her.
“I swear one of these days I’m gonna…” He decided it would be best to just let it go and instead turned his attention to her brother. “I want to ask you something Pound. How is life like knowing that you live with this menace to society?”
“Hey!”
“Not that easy to be honest but I manage,” Pound responded making Pumpkin double take.
“What!”
“I’m just being truthful,” Pound responded. Two Bit couldn't hold back his giggling to the disdain of Pumpkin.
“Ha ha ha, let it all out while you can. Anyway, has anypony stopped by for your ‘ciders’ so to speak?”
Two Bit spoke enthusiastically. “Excellent actually! I actually had some pay me a bit for the bottle. Sure I’m probably going to get busted and get in trouble but…”
Pound was thrown back by Two Bit’s response. “What do you mean get in trouble?”
Two Bit fiddled his hooves playfully, “Weeeellll….”
***
On the other side of the street, there were ponies lined up to bob for apples. One of these ponies was the pinto colored Pipsqueak dressed in a pirate outfit getting ready play the game.
“Pippy!” His Lavender marefriend Dinky came running towards him wrapping her hooves around and giving him a big hug. “Guess what I got you!”
“By the content in your right hand, I would have to guess cider,” Pipsqueak deduced.
“Correct! You said you were thirsty so I went and bought you something to drink.” She handed the bottle to Pipsqueak with a smile on her face.
“Thanks Dinky! Guess I could use a tad bit to drink.” He uncorked the top of the bottle, raised it to his lips, and sipped down the cold refreshing beverage. It had a pungent taste but he didn't find it too odd.
“Alrighty then! Let’s get bobbing!” The crowd stood and watched as Pipsqueak planted his face into the watery barrel. Dinky was the most enthusiastic of the group, watching eagerly to see if he could do it.
“Wow, you can hold your breath for a long time Pippy! I guess you’re looking for the biggest one possible.” Dinky remained happy and calm until about twenty seconds in, when she realized he wasn’t moving.
“Pippy?”
The only thing that answered her was the bubbles rising to the surface of the barrel.
“PIPPY!” Dinky ran towards the barrel and pulled his heavy limp body out with the aid of other worried civilians. “Oh no oh no oh no!! What’s wrong with him!? Wake up!”
On the verge of tears Dinky asked one of the other ponies to help her figure out what was wrong with Pipsqueak. Uncertainty soon faded when they heard Pipsqueak snoring.
“Um, young lady, it seems to me that he is in fact sleeping,” stated one of the horses watching. The worries left, but Dinky still remained concerned.
“Goodness Pippy! You just had to start a show did you? If you were tired you should have just said something.” The still unconscious Pipsqueak didn't answer. “Could one of you guys help me take this sleepyhead home?" The costumed civilians decided to lift Dinky a hand, and used a wheelbarrow to transport the sleeping pirate home.
***
“You know what, I don’t even care,” Pound sighed knowing that whatever he was talking about wasn't any good. “Anyways, we should probably try and find Pinkie.”
Pumpkin nodded in agreement. “True. The sooner we find her, the sooner we can go to the…”
“THERE YOU ARE!” Seemingly out of nowhere Pinkie pounce the children and gave a smile stretching all throughout her face. “You won’t believe the stash I got! After getting some apples I found this one pony with a pile of candy he was just giving away and all I had to do was drink a container of sugar without stopping and I did it and I got it and now I can’t stop moving and….wowwy what’s that!!”
She looked towards the tabletop where Two Bit was and saw a group of cider bottles.
“Ooh! Drinks! Can I have some?”
Pumpkin frantically tried to stop Pinkie. “No wait! Do not…”
“Thaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaankk Yooooooooou!!” She was too hyper to listen to Pumpkin and ended up downing a whole case of Two Bits cider, causing the three children to stare in awe.
“Ahh, that was refreshing! And you know that kind of calmed me down. I think I might…be…re…” Within moments Pinkie collapsed on the ground snoring loudly. Pumpkin’s face went to rage as she turned towards Two Bit and grabbed him by the fake beard.
“Why did you let her drink them you idiot!” snarled the furious filly, causing the now nervous Two Bit to gulp.
“I didn't! She…she just took them and guzzled it down without stopping!”
Pound was panicking a bit as well tracing back and forth. “I don’t think the question should be why she drank it! It should be what was in that drink in the first place!”
Pumpkin was still glaring at Two Bit and refused to let go of him as he tried to explain what was in the cider. “Um..it’s mixed with some of the nocturnal flowers that would knock you out for maybe around ten minutes. She drank a whole set, so she’s going to be out for probably an hour or so.”
“AN HOUR!?” Pumpkin threw Two Bit on the ground and held her head in frustration.
“What are you so mad at me for!?” Two Bit finally retaliated still planted on the ground. “You had no problem with it until she got knocked out!”
“Well probably because I wanted to go to the freakin haunted house!!” Pumpkin lashed out before putting her hooves on her face. “I can’t get in without a legal guardian…”
“A haunted house!?” Pound exclaimed getting annoyed with Pumpkin. “Pinkie is lying unconscious on the cold hard ground on the account of you and your friend’s carelessness and all you care about is a stupid haunted house!?” A horrid thought began to flow through his head and dread and anxiousness filled his body. “Why did I ever destroy that letter and let you out of the house. Now I’m gonna be in deeper trouble than I’m already going to be in.”
“So, how are you going to fix this huh?” Pumpkin demanded towards Two Bit, whose brow began to lower much to Pumpkin’s surprise.
“How am I going to fix it!? Don’t pin this all on me! You’re just as responsible for this as me. Come to think of it, why the heck should I help you with your unconscious pink bomb here!! You handle it yourselves!”
Tension was beginning to rise between the two delinquents as Pound was still worried about how they were going to explain how Pinkie got knocked out.
“Could you two quit arguing for a moment and help me figure out what to do with her?”
“Oh sure, you two have fun with that!” Two Bit snorted. “I’m done here for the night. I just pray your sister isn't as much of a pain in the flank to you as she always is to me!” With that, Two Bit storms off leaving a flustered Pumpkin to deal a weak retaliation.
“Well…you’re just an immature twit anyways! And don’t think about coming over to my house again for something. You’re the reason I got busted in the first place!!!”
Completely spent from all the yelling she just did, the orange filly sat on the ground and let out an exasperated sigh. “You two argue like an old married couple by the way,” Pound quipped trying to lighten the mood a bit.
“Shut up.”
“So what are we going to do about Pinkie now? We can’t just leave her out here.”
Pumpkin put her hooves on her chin and pondered on the issue at hand. “I think I have an idea.”
***
“So basically your plan was to leave Pinkie on a bench where everypony can see her and walk off and try to convince somepony to pose as a legal guardian so you can get into a stupid haunted house?” Pound questioned his sister as they walked towards their destination.
“Hey Einstein, I didn't hear you coming up with any ideas!” Pumpkin hissed. “Besides, if I can’t get into this haunted house, you practically broke Mom’s rules for no reason other to get me candy, something you could have just asked the residence to do.”
Pound unfortunately couldn't argue with her logic. If she didn't come out and do what she wanted to that night, his sacrifice would have been in vain.
“Okay, so what are you going to do, grab some random pony off the street and claim that they’re our guardians?” “I was thinking more on the line of your two friends up there,” pointed Pumpkin.
Surely enough, Storm Chaser dressed as a Shadowbolt and Jubilee dressed as royalty were standing beside each other making conversations. The line for the haunted house was short, which did not help Pound’s courage any. It also didn't help that the walls were decorated with sculpted severed heads and the sounds of ghoulish howls and laughing.
“Look all I’m saying is that dresses generally makes you look fat in general,” Storm Chaser debated. “Plus you kinda look like one of those frou-frou girls ponies can’t stand to be around!”
“Yeah, well I’m not standing here tearing apart your stupid latex Shadowbolt outfit that barely fits you!” teased Jubilee sticking her tongue out at him.
“It’s vintage! And you just insulted me right there!”
“Huh, guess I did huh?”
“Hey!! Latex guy and girly girl!!” Pumpkin shouted to the two ponies as Pound facehooved at her outburst.
“Uh wha…Oh hey it’s Champ and his little sister!” shouted out Storm Chaser. “And it’s vintage by the way.”
“Yeah yeah,” Pumpkin dismissed, “Can you two help us?”
“With what exactly?” asked Jubilee curiously.
“Well Pumpkin over hear and her friend ended up letting Pinkie drink some kind of cider with nocturnal flowers in them…”
“Totally Two Twit’s fault.”
“Right….and now we need somepony who is willing to pose as our guardians until we get done with the night…um…if you’re cool with that that is.”
Jubilee scratched her mane and looked into Pound’s hopeful eyes. “Well, I don’t know. I mean, it’s not like we’re your parents so we would have to…”
“Aw stop pussyfooting and just say yes already!” Storm Chaser interrupted. “We’re almost at the front of the line anyways.” Jubilee gave Storm a stern look before sighing and looking back at the kids. “Alright fine. But not a word of this to anypony understand?”
Pumpkin smiled widely while Pound just lightly replied, “Trust me, after tonight there will be many things that will go unspoken.”
The line inched up rapidly and they came closer to their destination. Pound looked at the grotesque architecture of the building and heard the screams of terrified ponies inside. His stomach began to churn and twist into a painful sensation that made him feel discomfort. Normally he would be quick to run away, but his crush was standing right there, with Pumpkin around no less. He couldn't risk looking like a wimp in front of Jubilee when Pumpkin could use that to haunt him for life. It was their turn to enter, and they showed their tickets and began to step inside. Unfortunately for them, the security was an observant one.
“Hey wait a minute, aren't you the Cake’s kids?” one of the security ponies inquired tugging at the two siblings with his hooves.
“Well, yeah…” Pumpkin began, “but we have these two as guardians see?”
She pointed at Storm Chaser and Jubilee hoping that the colt would buy it without any questions.
“I don’t remember seeing these two with you young ones before!” Unfortunately, the security was a little too smart to simply buy Pumpkin’s statement.
“That’s because they’re our niece and nephews!” Storm Chaser lied, causing Jubilee’s face to turn sour and Pound and Pumpkin to facehoof simultaneously. “We don’t get a lot of time to spend time with them so we decided to take them out for a night of thrills!”
“It’s hard for me to believe that you two are the uncle and aunt to these children.”
“Well, that’s just something that you’re going to have to trust us on and let us be now isn't it?!”
“Actually son, I can go into Ponyville’s records and find out if you are related to these kids, and if I find out you’re lying I can easily have you kicked from any activity in Ponyville for trying to take underage kids to this!”
The promising threat of the security guard caused Storm Chaser to come clean. “Ok fine! Man, thought that might work.”
“Well your first mistake was saying that we were their aunt and uncle idiot!” Jubilee responded lightly slapping Storm Chaser on the cheek. “Sorry kids. If Storm here wasn't so stupid we might have been able to…”
“No it’s fine! I’m fine with it!” Pound’s response came off awkward and shaky. It was obvious he wasn't looking forward to going inside and was quite relieved that he didn't have to go in.
“Well, we’ll catch up with you later!” Storm Chaser said before he and Jubilee headed inside the house. The security pony directed Pumpkin and Pound outside and encouraged them to find something else to do.
***
The only thing that was left to do really was to go home, and with a heavy heart, Pumpkin started trotting towards their home.
“This sucks,” she whined with Pound trailing behind her. “I’m grounded for over a year, Pinkie’s knocked out on some bench, and I can’t even go to a stupid haunted house! Plus you have all my Mocha Bombs. This Nightmare Night sucks!”
“Well, it wasn't that bad,” Pound tried to cheer Pumpkin up, obviously with no success. “I mean, it’s not like the haunted house is really necessary to have a good time tonight.”
“Yes it was! It was the icing on the cake. Now the cake tastes of disappointment.”
“Well I’m sorry Pumpkin, but there isn't really anything we can do about it! By the time Pinkie wakes up, the night will already be over!”
A disgusted look brushed across Pumpkin’s face. “Yeah I know. But I can’t go home without some kind of thrill otherwise this would be pointless. It’s like the only way to get any scares is to…”
Pumpkin paused for a moment and a hopeful grin formed on her face. Pound was starting to get slightly suspicious.
“Um, Pumpkin? What are you thinking?”
“I just had an idea on how to make this night completely worth it! I don’t know why I didn't consider it as an option before. And we’re walking right by the place, so we might as well go to the Everfree and…”
“Are you out of your mind?!” Pound screamed not allowing Pumpkin to finish. “Do you know what’s out there at this time of night?!”
“Do you?” Pumpkin sassed back.
“Well…um…no. But that doesn't make it less dangerous!”
“No one is making you go. You can go home and be the little coward you are if you want to.”
“It’s not about me being scared! It’s about you doing something potentially suicidal and dangerous! What would Mom and Dad think if they knew you did this?”
Pumpkin’s face contorted to an unfamiliar form of anger. “Mom this!! Dad that!! If I actually gave a buck I wouldn't have snuck out in the first place! Come to think of it, it was because of them I’m in trouble!”
“They are not to blame! If you didn't sneak off in the first place you wouldn't have been in the situation you were in!”
Pumpkin rolled her eyes and walked towards the Everfree, causing Pound to grow more concerned.
“Pumpkin, stop! Go in there and I’ll…”
“You’ll do what!? Tell on me? I guess you can also explain what I’m doing out here in the first place or why Pinkie was lying unconscious on the ground!” Pumpkin walked even deeper into the thick woods and briefly cocked her head towards Pound. “If you want me to come back, then you’re gonna have to get me!”
With that, she ran off, leaving a flustered Pound trying to chase after her. Not inches in, he began to freeze in panic. His charging chase towards Pumpkin slowed to a snail’s pace as he inched his way further into the forest.
“Pumpkin…this isn't funny!” Pound called out still shaking and sweating profusely. “Please just come back! Seriously, you’re going to worry the others!”
He kept calling out but with no answer. Pound’s journeyed deeper into the forest in hopes to run across his sister, but all he heard were the rustling of the leaves and soft sounds from the creatures inside. He was becoming more and more terrified by the second.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!” A scream pierced the skies and Pound’s eyes widened. It was Pumpkin.
“Pumpkin! If you’re joking it’s not funny!” Pound ran towards the source of the sound and as he got closer and closer, something became apparent.
This was no joke. Those were blood curdling screams polluting the air. Along with those screams was another disturbing sound. It was the sound of growling and howling.
“Pumpkin! If you’re alright say something! PUMPKIN!!”
No answer, but the howls kept growing. Pound was getting closer, and he didn't like what he was hearing, but he had to help his sister the best way he could.
The voice became louder and crisper, and more threatening. As Pound got closer, he noticed where the sounds were coming from. Timberwolves were in the area, grouping together and looking at something. Scared senseless, Pound hid inside a nearby bush to avoid exposure and waited for them to leave, too frightened to scream. He was fortunate enough to not arouse attention from the timberwolves, and after ten agonizing minutes, they finally fled.
While he was happy that the wolves had left, something was worrying him. There was no more screaming or pleading. Everything had turned silent.
“Pumpkin?” Pound weakly squeaked. No answer. Pound inched towards the area where the wolves gathered. When he got there, he found something from Pumpkin…but he soon regretted finding it.
Lying on the ground was her torn ribbon, which was now painted in crimson blood. The worse of his fears had come true, and before he knew it, streams of tears started to flow down his face.
“Pumpkin…”
Tired and now dead inside, Pound made his way outside of the Everfree Forest and headed towards were he last saw Pinkie. However, it seemed like the pink mare had the same idea.
“Pound! Thank goodness you’re alright! I couldn't find you or Pumpkin and I was lying on some bench for some reason! Where’s Pumpkin and…wait. What’s that in your mouth? And why are you crying?”
Pound let the ribbon slowly drop to the ground. As Pinkie got a better look at it, she quickly pieced everything together. It was her turn to shed tears, and unlike the flowing river of tears that could be mended with laughter, these tears were tears of brokenness. The two began to walk home, dreading how they would explain this to Carrot and Cup.
***
The next afternoon, Cup and Carrot departed from their train and happily trotted towards Sugercube Corner.
“Well I’ll say that was a successful night dear!” a very elated Cup Cake stated to her husband.
“I would agree,” smiled Carrot holding a small plate on his back. “Though I’m curious, is it the reception that’s making you happy or something else we did?”
“I’ll let you figure that out yourself hon,” purred Cup making Carrot’s cheeks slightly blush. “So, why in fact didn't you let me eat any of those yummy treats in that plate again?”
“Oh just saving them for a special somepony!” Carrot answered.
“Oh, so I’m not special to you anymore?”
“You know that’s not what I mean.”
“Then who are they for? You’re either giving them to another mare or sneaking them for Pumpkin. And I know the first one isn't optional after last night so that kind of narrows it down huh?”
Carrot let out a small laugh. “Alright, you got me! I’m giving them to Pumpkin. I know, I’m pathetic when it comes down to this whole punishment thing.”
“Yes you are,” Cup stated before kissing her husband, “and I wouldn't have it any other way. Though she’s only allowed one got it!”
“Yes mam!”
They eventually made it to Sugercube Corner, noticing how quiet it was. The couple just assumed that they were tired from the excitement of last night and walked in, noticing a very somber and flat haired Pinkie. She looked like she had been through tartarus.
“Pinkie? Are you okay?” Cup asked worriedly. “Where are the kids?”
“I’m sorry,” was all Pinkie could mutter out. “I’m sorry.”
“Pinkie, you’re scaring me. What’s wrong?”
Cup and Carrot started to become startled by Pinkie’s unstable behavior. She was rocking with tears in her eyes constantly muttering getting louder and louder.
“I’m sorry. So sorry. Sorry sorry SORRY SORRY!!” She then ran towards Cup and planted her face into her chest bawling loudly.
Pound was lying on his bed, staring at the empty bed on the other side of him. He didn't have the energy to get up to greet his parents, nor did he have the energy to cry anymore. He just kept replaying the events over and over in his head. He knew the news reached his parents as soon as he heard their cries of disbelief and sorrow. They had lost their only daughter, and it was his fault. Or at least that’s what he made himself believe.
Far West of Canterlot, there laid a nation that was free from the royal protection and leadership of the princesses. The city shrouded in smoke was lively and thriving with civilians but had a shady history to it. Tall Tale was known for having many of the ponies import illegal goods and eliciting riots that caused panic to the victims. There were even reports of royal guards going missing after trying to enter the city, though none have been confirmed true. Under the watch of the surrounding nations Tall Tale’s criminal activity slowed down relieving many. However, regardless of their depleted movement, it was safe to say that some of the shadier ponies in Tall Tale were not going to fade away so easily.
Within the city a local pub going by the name of The Bucking Brawn kept was where many of the residence spent their day listening to gossip and drinking until they passed out. The place was always lively, gaining attention from the locals and increasing in customer size by the day. The congested pub was filled with ponies talking, playing darts, and even at times having brawls just to show off. It appealed to rather rowdy customers, but generally didn't garner attention from officials since mainly what happened in Bucking Brawn stayed at Bucking Brawn. At the bar counter, a golden unicorn with a light brown mane was conversing with the bartender, who pouring grog for the lively colt’s declamation.
“And then the fool actually went up to the guy and asked him about his speech impediment! Poor bastard ended up in the hospital for months afterwards!?”
“Yeah yeah,” the bartender grunted as he continued supplying eager ponies with their drinks. “You know Sting, that instigating you do is going to get you killed one of these days.”
The golden colt tsked at the reply while bringing his half empty mug to his mouth. “Good old Barley Malt, being your usual pessimistic self! I’m pretty sure if ponies wanted me dead I’d be dead by now. They have the firepower to do that you know.”
“Thanks to you and your trouble making rebellion you got yourself into,” Barley retorted as he handed a clearly drunken Pegasus his drink. Most of it avoided the Pegasus’s lips and instead favored his face, but what drunken fools did with their money wasn't Barley’s issue. “I don’t understand what you and the…what you call yourselves, The Spores…are planning to do with the weapons anyways.”
Sting gulped down the rest of his grog and slammed the mug onto the counter, whipping the remaining liquids from his lips. “Ah, well that’s something I can’t disclose friend, namely cause I’m not too sure myself. Anyways more of the usual please.”
“You just had three mugs,” Barley stoically stated.
“So! I had eight last week remember?”
“Yeah, and I also remember you drinking yourself into a stupor and me having to drag your heavy flank half across town.”
Sting rolled his eyes and smiled back at the resisting bartender. “And who are you to question a paying customer?”
“Well seeing how I know you personally,” Barley started as he began pouring another mug of grog for Sting, “I feel inclined to make sure you don’t make too many stupid mistakes. But as you said, you have money so who am I to argue. You’re paying for it, in more ways than one.”
“That last bit was a little unnecessary but thanks anyways,” Sting playfully huffed, grabbing the mug and beginning to down the drink once more. Barley let out a slight sigh as he watched the youthful colt down the alcohol.
“So, like I was saying, about this group you’re into…”
“Ah ta ta!” Barley was hushed by a golden hoof on his mouth causing him to show annoyance in his brow. “Like I said before, if anypony wanted me dead, they would have done so by now. There hasn't been trouble in town for months, and there shouldn't be. So calm down okay will ya?”
The bartender’s gruff expression refused to fade from his face. All he did was slightly nod as he continued to serve some of the other customers who were looking to quench their insatiable thirst. “Still think you’re way in over your head.”
Ignoring Barley’s disapproval, he continued to down his grog swiftly. While he was drinking, Sting felt hooves tap him on the back; he turned around to see a mailmare standing behind him.
“I’m sorry, but are you by any chance a colt named Sting?”
“The one and only,” the colt pronounced and went back to drinking.
“Well here’s a letter for you. The guy said it was imperative that you read it as soon as you get it.” She took the letter out and set it next to his mug on the counter top. “Have a nice rest of the day sir!” She saluted the golden mare and leaves. Sting looks at the lettering address, which instantly caught his attention. A small sigh escaped his lips which was followed by a grin.
“Yo Barley, I’ll catch you later!” Sting announced waving the letter to let him know it was urgent. “I got something I need to take care of!”
“Fine by me,” the bartender responded. “Just remember, you still owe me.”
“For what? I pay you upfront for the beer here so what are you talking about?”
“I’m talking about me keeping you alive for the past five years.”
Sting allowed a hearty laugh to escape his lips. “Well as usual, just put it on my tab.”
***
Sting, we are in the process of establishing a plan of execution. All we need now is the cooperation of our friend here that I want to show you. If you really want to prove your worth in the organization, then come here immediately and do what needs to be done.
Down with the Royal Officials, Ace
Sting reread the letter repeatedly as he headed down the back ally of Tall Tale.
A friend? Wonder who this might be.
Spore’s building was hidden behind the unsanitary streets behind the homeless and the starving. From the exterior, the organizations building looked drab and unappealing, making it a good spot for the group. Sting walked up the creaky front steps and rapped on the door.
Rat-tat…tat…tat.
“Took you forever Sting,” a rough voice complained from behind the door.
“Hello yourself,” Sting quipped as he waited to gain entry. Surely enough, the door opened and he walked inside.
The interior of the building was way more appealing than the outside. Vibrant colors painted the walls and the ponies inside were enjoying some of the finer services of Tall Tale. Colts were having food served to them by mares, lively conversations, and just laughter and pleasure all around. Sting himself wished he could join in on the fun, but was intercepted by a burly silver unicorn who carried a scowl on his face.
“You really ought to do better with your timing!” the colt scolded.
“Well, can’t help if I’m have other matters that needed to be taken care of Ace.” Sting countered sporting a toothy grin just to aggravate the bigger unicorn.
“Your idea of business is getting plastered at that damned bar! I’m not in the mood for your games today!”
Ace’s face was turning a hint of red as his face heated up. Sting was up for many things, but he didn’t want to catch Ace at his worse.
“Okay Ace I get it! Just calm down please! You get yourself so worked up over nothing.” Sting looked around the lobby briefly and redirected his attention towards Ace.
“Sure I can’t hang with the guys before you…”
“STING!” Ace hissed loudly making the golden unicorn flinch at his tone.
“Alright! So what is it? And who is this so called friend?”
“We’ll discuss it on the way to the interrogation room,” Ace led the way to the basement where Sting’s questions would be answered. The basement leading to the interrogation room was less appealing than the upper level lobby, but still more sanitary than the outside appearance.
“So, didn't want to pop this question on ya while we were in public, but how did you get that scar on your face?” Sting asked trailing behind Ace.
“Had a run in with a royal guard while I was out,” Ace stoically answered making his way down the stairs. “Shot a blast of magic at my eye.”
“Aw that sucks. Was kind of hoping you could go a month without killing one of them for once.”
“Oh this one made it out alive, though he’s not going to want to be after we’re through with him.”
Sting’s curiosity continued to grow due to the response. “Wait, so why did you let him go and have all the others killed?”
For the first time since Sting’s arrival, Ace let a grin form on his face. “Why don’t you ask the guy yourself?”
While still puzzled, Sting followed the leading colt into the interrogation room below the settlement. With anticipation stirring up, Sting found that he growing anxious and impatient. These feelings died down as they entered the room where he saw an unusual site; tied by a rusty collar was a tattered, beaten royal guard looking shamefully at the ground.
“So what, is this the friend you were talking about or a new pet?” Sting questioned sarcastically.
“The former,” declared Ace ignoring the tone of Sting’s question. “this is the guy who seemingly got a hold of what we were planning, what we were going to do, and how we were going to do it. Normally, a certain somepony here would be dead, but he’s an exception.”
“I’m assuming because he’s going to provide some important details.”
“Better than details Sting,” Ace proudly explained while pacing back and forth in front of the dishonored guard. “Upon fighting the ambitious friend of royalty, he let me hear something he wasn't supposed to, and after…’interrogating him’…I discovered this fellow has personal access to the area where the Elements of Harmony are kept.”
Sting’s ears perked from the reveal. A burst of excitement showed on his face. “And because he has access, he can help us by bringing them to us am I correct?”
“Exactly on point Sting! However, that’s all if he wants to comply or not. I mean the other option is involving his family that he has, and I’m sure he doesn't want that now do you?” Ace used a little magic to wave the picture of the royal guard’s wife and three fillies in front of him. On the verge of tears, the nearly broken guard returned to hopelessly at the ground.
“Oh it’ll be fine man,” Sting tried to assure the battered colt. “If it makes you feel any better I’m not into the whole involving family business, so my hands will be clean of any bodily harm our group might do if you don’t comply. Besides, you have options that will completely protect. I’d say that’s a hell of a lot better than the chance your nation gave my family.”
“As much as I’m sure he’d like to hear you go down memory lane, I think we should give him a day or two to think about his choice,” Ace demanded.
“Alright boss, let’s go,” Sting obeyed walking up the stairs. “Hey, are you willing to buy me some hay fries? I’m kind of hungry!”
“With the money you spent on alcohol you could have bought you a full helping of hay fries. So no!”
“Come on! Don’t be like that.”
The two continued their discussion and continued up the stairs, leaving the shamed member of the royal guard to sit and think of what his decision would be. Tired, bruised, and completely disgraced, he only had one thing to mutter before finally falling asleep due to exhaustion.
