This story is a sequel to Hurricane's Way

It's no secret that pegasi have a long, proud history as the warrior tribe. Their race boasts some of ponykind's greatest military minds, fearless legions that struck fear into the hearts of any who dared oppose them with their mighty lightning lancers and thunderhead squads.

Honor, duty, and protecting their own kind were the very foundation of the old legions, a notion that holds true to this very day. The strong protect the weak, and the weak stay safe under wing, grateful for their care.

But just how do they make such a big decision? Who determines the stronger pony out of two so closely bonded?

For all those questions, there is but one answer:

The Challenge.

Preread by Cynewulf, Jondor, and Timaeus. Thanks, guys.

Cover art by FairDahlia.

Flat teeth or fangs? Velvety smooth coat or firm carapace? Mane or headfin?

Thorax frets over which face he wishes to show the crystal ponies his age. Fortunately, there's somepony willing to offer a word or two of comfort and support, as well as teach him a life lesson that will stick with him forever.

Preread by Fahrenheit and Timaeus.

Loosely inspired by this piece by Starshade001. Used as cover art with permission from the artist.

Youtube reading by Chaotic.

Applejack and Matte Palette were best friends when they were younger. Like her, the poor colt doesn’t seem to have much in common with kids his own gender, so they formed an unlikely duo. The two were inseparable, right up until Applejack moved to live with the Orange side of her family, and the childhood friends fail to keep in touch.

But time passes, and Applejack returns to Ponyville. Her biggest hope is to pick up where she left off, and that includes her friendship with Matte Palette. Something seems different about him, though.

Written as a birthday present for Dessert, who also did the cover art. More of their art can be found here

Fluttershy was ready to enjoy a nice, cozy night by herself on Hearth's Warming Eve. That is, until Rainbow Dash arrived on her snowy doorstep and turned Fluttershy's whole world upside down with three little words.

Winner of the 3rd Flutterdash Writing Contest: Change!

Review by Titanium Dragon

Edited by Swan Song and VitalSpark

This story is a sequel to Past Sins

When pursuing Starlight, Twilight and Spike experienced variances of Equestria, and saw how the river of time could have been different. Now, Starlight has moved in with Twilight, Nyx, and Spike and has begun her studies in friendship. To thank those who have helped her embrace friendship once more, Starlight has created an enchantment that allows the castle’s map table to let anyone glimpse other variances of reality.

The power to ask “what if,” can be a source of great amusement… but for some, the hypotheticals are haunting reminders of what could have been.

If there was something that broke Rarity's heart more than seeing her best friend getting stood up, it was seeing Twilight go back to the library with a matching broken heart.

Luckily for Twilight, Rarity would be damned if she let that happen.

Vinyl loves living in Ponyville with her girlfriend. It's nice and quiet, and they can both talk with friends without being pestered by crowds of adoring fans.

On their last night together before they head to their concerts in Canterlot and Manehattan, Vinyl comes home to a lovely dinner to celebrate a special night that slipped her mind.

Fortunately, Octavia had no intention of letting Vinyl's birthday go uncelebrated just because they'd be in different cities when it came.

Preread and edited by The Albinocorn, auramane, and Jondor.
Cover art by Ayahana.

Attics can hold many things: lost heirlooms and hidden fortunes, or sometimes even fond memories. While doing some spring cleaning, Rainbow Dash and Rarity stumble across one such memory in the form of a picture taken many years ago. Together, they recall the magic night the picture was taken, and how it brought them to where they are now.

Cover image provided by Ruirik

In her latest attempt to take over Canterlot, Chrysalis has foalnapped Pinkie Pie and is holding her hostage in the changeling hive.
Yet this pony is different. Most ponies end up weeping in their cells, begging and pleading for release. In contrast, Pinkie Pie just doesn't stay still.
Or stay in her cell.
Or stay quiet.

Written for the October Crack Ships, Inc. contest.

Packing up your entire life and moving to Ponyville? Not a problem. Starting your business from scratch (again)? Piece of cake. Getting others to accept your lifestyle? Filly, please. Give me a real challenge.
Getting ready for a wedding? ...Come on. This is Ponyville. Fifty bits says you can't even get past the invitations without something going wrong.