//------------------------------//
// S7 E18: The Brave Little Wonderbolt (Campfire Tales, Part 3 - What If?) 
// Story: My Little Pony Friendship is Magic What If?: Volume 7 
// by SuperPinkBrony12 
//------------------------------//

Despite being the newest member of the Wonderbolts, Thunderlane thought nothing was out of the ordinary when he was called into Spitfire's office one day. She probably just wanted to discuss something with him, perhaps a message about staying focused on his training and not on his little brother, Rumble.

It really worried Thunderlane that Rumble was so obsessed with being like his brother, an obsession that had been consuming him ever since his big brother had joined the ranks to fill the spot left vacant by Cool Breeze's retirement.

"If only Rumble understood, he can't possibly be a Wonderbolt at his age," Thunderlane thought to himself. "That is, unless he'd like to be the team mascot. Although come to think of it, that wouldn't be so bad. We could dress him up in all sorts of cute outfits and take him along to press conferences and photo shoots. I could keep an eye on him without having to hire a foalsitter."

Shaking his head the stallion turned his thoughts back to the reasons behind his captain calling him into her office. He really needed to focus on that. As a Wonderbolt he was first and foremost required to focus on the team.

Lightly rapping a hoof against the door of Spitfire's office, Thunderlane soon heard the response. "Come in, Thunderlane."

Trotting into the room, Thunderlane carefully closed the door behind him and locked eyes with Captain Spitfire. It still amazed him how a pony like her could be captain at such a young age, and keep that look. The pegasus stallion was so sure that if it were him in the position of captain, he'd have a mane consisting entirely of grey locks by now.

"Ah, Thunderlane, so glad you come," Spitfire smiled. "Don't worry, you're not in any trouble. In fact, you're just the sort of pony I wanted to see. I have a special job for you today."

"R-really, for me?" Thunderlane did his best to maintain a straight face. He didn't want to seem too excited before he knew what his assignment was (though hopefully it wasn't cleaning the entire compound, that was a task he hated getting stuck with). "Captain, you shouldn't have."

But Spitfire simply replied. "But I did. You've been working so hard since you joined our ranks a short time ago, Thunderlane. I daresay I haven't seen a newbie with so much potential since Rainbow Dash, and I see a lot of myself in her. Anyway, I called you here today, because I want to officially place you in charge of managing the cadets' annual retreat to Baltimare."

"What?! A retreat?! Me?!" Thunderlane exclaimed.

Spitfire nodded. "You heard right, Thunderlane. This is a big honor for you, you should feel privileged."

"Oh I am, but why me exactly? Shouldn't you be running something like this?" Thunderlane pondered.

The young captain replied to the newbie. "Normally I would be, but unfortunately this year the cadets' retreat also falls on the same day as the start of trials week here at the academy. And after what happened last time, I think it's abundantly clear that I can't forsake my duties to the new recruits. I may be hard on them, but I always see potential in every single one of 'em."

"Rainbow Dash was right," Thunderlane teased with a snicker. "You really do have a soft spot."

At that Spitfire tried her hardest to suppress some giggles as she rose from her seat. "It's funny you should mention, Rainbow Dash, Thunderlane. Because that brings me to my next announcement."

"And that would be?" Thunderlane questioned.

But just then the door knob turned, and into the room trotted Rainbow Dash all decked out in full Wonderbolts attire. "Hey, Captain," She greeted to Spitfire. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything but I was just wondering if..." But then her wandering eyes fell upon Thunderlane.

Thunderlane was equally rendered speechless. Spitfire just looked at the two and said to them. "Well, like it or not you two are officially partners on this."



Thunderlane was the first one to speak up after a long silence. "Captain, why exactly is Rainbow Dash here? I thought I was the one taking the cadets on their retreat."

"Well it's a big job, Thunderlane," Spitfire explained in reply. "Far too big for one pony to do the job alone. Since Soarin and Fleetfoot share the role of second in command, and Misty Fly is busy with other things, Rainbow Dash decided to volunteer before I could pick names out of a hat. But you two should work fine together."

Rainbow beamed. "This is a big honor, Thunderlane! I hope you're not gonna turn it down! The cadets will be gushing about you for months to come," And then she added. "This is our chance to really leave a lasting impression on the next crop of future Wonderbolts."

Thunderlane nervously retorted. "I don't know, Rainbow Dash. I've only been a Wonderbolt for the better half of five months now," With a gulp he added. "I've never even been to Baltimare. Heck, I've only just gotten used to flying to and from Ponyville and Cloudsdale."

"Ah, what's the matter, Thunderlane?" Rainbow teased as she trotted over. "Don't tell me you're afraid of a little responsibility. I've heard how well you manage with Rumble."

"S-so what? T-that's different," Thunderlane retorted. "Rumble's just one pony. I couldn't possibly manage an entire group of them, especially when I'm supposed to take them somewhere I've never been to before."

Rainbow just continued to tease Thunderlane with a fiendish grin on her face, locking eyes with him as she said to the stallion. "Come now, Thunderlane, it's just a couple of cadets. You were a cadet once too. Besides, you've got me to help you," And then she added. "What would Rumble say if he found out his big brother was trying to get out of his big pony responsibilities? He'd never let you hear the end of it, and you know how much you try to set a good example for him to follow."

At that the pegasus stallion began to growl ever so lightly. "If you're trying to get under my fur, Rainbow Dash, it's working."

"Good, I hope it is," The cyan coated speedster retorted. "Come on, Thunderlane, this'll be fun. It beats having to clean the compound after flight practice, right?"

"You're not going to let up until I say 'yes' aren't you?" Thunderlane arched an eyebrow upward. "Fine, I guess I'll go along with you and take the cadets on their retreat. But it's only this one time."

Rainbow grinned from ear to ear. "I knew you'd come around eventually, Thunderlane. Trust me, Baltimare is lovely this time of year. The fresh air, the sparkling blue waters, and the sounds of the sea. It's like being on a vacation."

"When you put it like that, I suppose it's not all bad." The stallion commented as he put a hoof to his chin. 

"Exactly!" Rainbow proudly declared as she put a hoof around her fellow Wonderbolt. "Now come on! We'd probably already be on our way if you weren't so worried."

"Not so fast you two," Spitfire cautioned to the newest members of the team. "Baltimare isn't all fun and games, you know. Lately there have been reported sightings of the dreaded griffon pirate Captain Hook."

Rainbow waved a hoof in a dismissive fashion. "Oh please, everypony knows Captain Hook is an just old pony's tale. There have been rumored sightings of him dating back to before Luna got back from the moon, nopony's ever actually seen him. He's just something the locals made up to attract tourists."

Spitfire shook her head. "Even so I don't want to take any chances. I'm ordering you two to stay away from him at all costs. Don't even look at him if you should happen to spot his ship," And she then added. "If he's out there and he spots you, he's sure to think you've been sent by the princess to bring him in and he'll take it as a sign of war. So under no circumstances should you make any attempt to engage him."

"Aw come on, can't I at least get a good look at him?" Rainbow pleaded.

"No, you cannot get a look at him!" Spitfire retorted. "Please, you two, I want you to promise me right here, right now. Promise me that no matter what, you'll stay away from that pirate captain and let him go about his business. If anything happens to the cadets because of him, I won't hesitate to kick you two out of the Wonderbolts. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, Captain." Rainbow and Thunderlane both said at once.

The young captain smiled and leaned back in her chair. "Good, just making sure we're on the same page. I don't think you'll actually run into Captain Hook though, so long as you stay close to the shore line that is. The sightings of Hook have only been on the open seas."

"Don't worry, Captain," Thunderlane saluted. "The cadets will be safe with us, you have our word. And if Rainbow even thinks of trying anything, I'll be there to reign her in."

"Excellent," Spitfire nodded. "Now you two had better get going, the cadets are sure to be growing restless. See you in a week."

"Same to you, Captain," Rainbow replied. "And try not to have too much with the new recruits. You know you have a tendency to overdo."

"No promises." The captain teased. And she waved a hoof as the two newest members of her team left her office. "Well, now I can rest easy," She thought to herself. "I just hope Misty Fly can keep the peace between Soarin and Fleetfoot by herself for the week."





Among the cadets that were waiting for Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane at the edge of the academy runway, were some familiar faces such as Angel Wings, Sky Stinger, and Vapor Trail. Though they were familiar with Rainbow they were quite surprised to see Thunderlane with her.

"Alright, cadets! Who's ready for a week of fun in the sun at Baltimare?!" Rainbow eagerly questioned. The cadets all replied by stomping their hooves in excitement!

"Okay then, everypony, let's get going," Thunderlane ordered. "But remember, we work as a team. So no going off by yourself and no unnecessary risks. Break the rules and you'll be sent home early." Then after slipping on his flight goggles (and Rainbow did the same) he took off with the cadets following close behind in single file fashion.

Before long, with Rainbow and Thunderlane leading the pack, the pegasi had left Cloudsdale and were flying out to Baltimare on Equestria's east coast. The trip passed largely in silence, as the newest Wonderbolts did not know what to say and just glanced back at the cadets from time to time to make sure no one had broken off from the formation.

Soon they reached their destination, the familiar sea breezes and call of the seagulls left no mistake as to the location. But when the group arrived, they soon took notice of a very puzzling and troubling matter. Namely the fact that all the shops and stands seemed to be closed, and all the houses boarded up as doors were shut tight and windows locked. It seemed like the entire town was afraid of something, or someone.

Only a few Baltimare residents were out on the docks, and they seemed to moving fast to haul up their cargo and leave. No one seemed willing to go out to sea despite the fact that there was not a cloud in sight, and the sea was so calm and smooth it was like a mirror.

Something was definitely not right here, Baltimare was a peaceful town. It wasn't like Ponyville where there was always the threat of something coming out of the Everfree Forest, or like Manehattan or Fillydelphia were there were dark alleys that housed all sorts of evil doers waiting to pounce on unexpecting victims.

So why was the entire city on edge and boarded up like it expected to be hit by a bad storm at any moment? There had to be a reason.

Sensing that the only way to get information was to ask somepony, Rainbow decided to approach an earth pony stallion who busy unloading the last few crates from his ship. His coat was a chestnut brown in color and his mane and tail were the same sea-green color as foam from the waves. He sported black eyes and a cutie mark depicting an anchor, and was currently clad in a white sailor's hat.

"Excuse me, sir," Rainbow inquired as she lightly tapped the stallion with a hoof. "You mind telling me what's going on? Why is everypony here acting so afraid?"

"You mean you haven't heard?" The sailor stallion replied as his eyes reflected a look of great concern, bordering on outright terror. "He has returned."

"Who's he?" Rainbow questioned before a sudden realization struck her! "Wait, you don't mean-"

The sailor nodded quickly in confirmation. "The dreaded Captain Hook lay anchor here just yesterday! He and his crew pillaged and looted whatever they could get their claws on. Nothing was too insignificant to pass up. And he promised he'd be back again to collect more loot," His lips began to quiver as he added. "That Captain Hook is a monster, he cares not for anyone but himself. And that hook claw of his, I pray you never have to know what it's like to have it be wrapped around your neck."

At that Rainbow felt a great anger start to boil up inside her. It started down low, but it quickly spread upward and began to consume her every thought. Soon she was blowing steam out of her nostrils and her face was burning bright red in fury.

The cadets began to worry, some even started whispering to themselves. "Um, should we be concerned?" Vapor Trail asked.

"I don't know, but I do know that Rainbow is scary when she's angry," Sky Stinger commented. "Probably best if we all just stand back and don't provoke her. I know the look of a peeved off pony when I see it, pardon my language."

Thunderlane approached Rainbow, hoping to calm her down. Despite not knowing her nearly well as her friends or fellow Wonderbolts, he still knew that Rainbow had quite the reputation. And that whenever she got really mad she was prone to making rash decisions that didn't always end well for her. Her temper may have gotten longer since joining the Wonderbolts, but some habits were hard to change.

Rainbow immediately spun around and glared at Thunderlane. "Don't try to talk me out of this, Thunderlane. That Captain Hook has quite the nerve to pick on defenseless ponies like that," Bringing her front hooves together she declared. "It's time somepony taught him a lesson he'll never forget!"

"Let it go, Rainbow!" Thunderlane cautioned. "Let's just send a report to the royal guard and let them handle it. This is the kind of situation that calls for their specific skills."

"No, Thunderlane! By the time the royal guard got here Captain Hook will have pillaged this town dry!" The brash speedster angrily retorted as she brought her hooves together again. "We have a chance to act! We have a chance to stop him from terrorizing this town again!"

"But Spitfire specifically warned us not to go near him!" Thunderlane protested. "She said he'd take it as an act of war!"

At that Rainbow snapped back! "Far as I'm concerned he fired the first shot when he chose to attack a town that's never done anything to him! It's time he learned that he can't just do what he wants and get away with it! I'll make him see sense one way or another!"

"And if the cadets get captured or worse, what will you do then?" Thunderlane questioned. "Spitfire will have our heads for this."

"Which is why I will be going alone," The cyan coated pegasus mare answered as she began to flap her wings. "You can stay behind to watch the cadets and make sure they're safe. What good is it for me to be a Wonderbolt if I can't help those who need it? I want to be as brave and noble as Flash Magnus, and if he were here he wouldn't turn tail and run, he'd stand and fight!" Then she added. "This won't take long! I've dealt with threats far worse than just pirate captain. Captain Hook will be mere child's play for me." And before anyone could even hope to stop her, she flapped her wings and took off in a blinding blur.

Thunderlane shook his head and sighed. "Some things never change," He thought to himself. "I can't let her tackle this on her own, she's in way over her head. But first I need to take care of the cadets and make sure they're out of harm's way." So he gave a whistle and instructed. "Okay, everypony, follow me. I know a place where we can be safe."

"But what about Rainbow Dash? Is she gonna be alright?" Vapor Trail asked with worry.

"Just leave her to me," Thunderlane cautioned to the recruits. "I'll see to it that she comes back safe and sound."





Rainbow was soon flying high in the sky over Baltimare, heading out towards the open sea in search of any ships that might resemble a pirate's ship. "I'll make you wish you'd never even considered this town, Captain Hook," She mentally vowed. "When I am through with you, you'll be dreading the day you ever heard the name 'Rainbow Dash'!"

Just then, however, the speedster's ears perked up as she heard a familiar voice calling out to her. "Rainbow Dash? Rainbow Dash!" Slowing halting in midair and turning around, Rainbow's eyes fell upon the fast approaching form of Thunderlane.

"Thunderlane? What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be watching the cadets?" Rainbow questioned her fellow pegasus with noticeable concern.

"Don't worry..." Thunderlane panted. "I left them at a hotel on the mainland... told them to stay there no matter what.... Couldn't leave you to take on Captain Hook alone."

"Thunderlane, I appreciate your concern but I know what I'm doing," Rainbow retorted. "You haven't been a Wonderbolt for as long as I have, or been on the kind of world saving adventures my friends and I have embarked on! I'm used to putting myself out there to defend others and pushing myself to the limit."

"You also have friends and family who care about you, as do I," Thunderlane replied quite firmly. "This isn't like those Daring Do adventures, this is real! If we're not careful, we may not make it out of this in one piece."

The cyan coated mare snorted in response. "I know the risks, Thunderlane. This is just like Flash Magnus when he joined the royal legion. He knew there would be risks. He knew there was always a chance he might not come back from whatever mission he embarked on. But he went out there anyway, he put himself on the line to protect and defend others. And even when he was afraid he never showed it!"

"But we aren't like Flash Magnus!" Thunderlane protested in response. "Please, Rainbow Dash, think about what you're doing! If Captain Hook was able to make Spitfire worry enough for her to specifically warn us about him, then he must be dangerous!"

"Then why did you come back for me?" Rainbow questioned. "I'll be just fine on my own!"

"Will you just listen?! We're both way out of our league here, Rainbow Dash!" Thunderlane desperately pleaded. "I know you think you're being brave and maybe you are to some extent! But if we don't get out of here soon, there's no telling what that Captain Hook will do to us! Please, let's leave this to ponies who are better equipped to handle this situation!"

But just then a loud boom split the air, and mere seconds later a cannonball came whizzing past! Both pegasi turned to look, and their worst fears were realized! A massive pirate ship floated alone on the briny blue, a black flag with a skull and crossbones flapped in the breeze, leaving little doubt as to the nature of the crew onboard.

"Evasive maneuvers!" Rainbow barked out as the two pegasi began to fly around in circles, trying desperately to dodge the bombardment of cannonballs that came flying past at a tremendous rate of speed!

"Harder, men! Give 'em a taste of hot iron!" One griffon pirate barked out! "Show them no mercy! They will soon learn what happens to those foolish enough to cross the Jolly Roger and her crew. The captain won't even need to get involved."

The aerial bombardment of cannonballs continued, and the two Wonderbolts ducked and weaved around them as best they could. Neither of them wanted to admit that they were fighting a losing battle. There seemed to be no end to the cannonballs, and the crazy aerial maneuvers the two pegasi were forced to take to avoid being hit were rapidly exhausting them.

"This isn't good! They're never gonna run out of cannonballs!" Thunderlane panted. "What are we going to do, Rainbow Dash?!"

"The only thing we can do!" Rainbow proclaimed. "We'll dive bomb the ship and knock the crew overboard. They won't know what hit 'em! Then we can deal with the captain himself."

Thunderlane gulped. "You sure that's a good idea? What if they catch onto our plan?"

"Would you rather stay up here and get knocked out of the sky?" Rainbow retorted.

Thunderlane reluctantly couldn't argue with that. But even so he couldn't help but think to himself. "I've got a very bad feeling about this." Still he forced himself to get into position with Rainbow, and the two then swooped low and charged at the ship!

Most of the crew were indeed knocked over aboard, taken by surprise. They quickly scrambled for any floating objects they could grab hold of and clung to them for dear life, bobbing up and down in the water like corks.

Unfortunately, however, as the two pegasi landed to catch their breath, the door to the captain's quarter flung open! Stumbling out in a rage was a griffon with feathers as black as an unlit cave (or the sky on a starless night), his right eye was covered by an eye-patch but his left eye was a cold and unforgiving gold in color. He had a long beard of equally dark black, and on his right claw, where the index claw should be, was a long metal hook.

"Well blow me down!" The pirate captain bellowed as he starred down the two trouble makers. "I might have known those pesky ponies would send someone after me and me crew! You scurvy-ridden sidewinders should've stayed away! I have no forgiveness for those who dare to stay in my way!"

"So you're the dreaded Captain Hook who's been terrorizing Baltimare!" Rainbow realized. "Well the jig is up, you've got no crew and soon you're going to have no ship! Now give back all the loot you stole from the good ponies of Baltimare, before I make you put it back!"

But Captain Hook only taunted and jeered! "You'll never get your grubby hooves on me plunder! Not so long as I draw breath! I would sooner be run through with my own sword than give up what is rightfully mine! These treasures will fetch a fine price on the markets, and the riches will allow me to retire in splendor! I'll go down in history as the king of all pirates!" He then stuck out his hook claw! "You pesky ponies shall rue the day you thought you could fight old Captain Hook face to face and get away with it!"

"Oh yeah?!" Rainbow taunted. "You and what army?! There's two of us, and only one of you!"

"That's where you're wrong, I know better than to leave me entire crew at the mercy of the open seas!" Captain Hook bellowed. "Smee, tie up these landlubbers and throw 'em in the cargo hold! They'll make a fine bargining tool!"

"Smee? Who's Smee?" Thunderlane wondered.

Just then a high pitched voice shouted. "Aye aye, captain, as you command!" And the next thing Rainbow and Thunderlane knew, they were enveloped by thick nets! They struggled in vain to break free, as they found themselves face to face with a much smaller griffon that sported white feathers, blue eyes, and a red cap. "Stop struggling, wastes of fur!" The griffon taunted. "You should be lucky the captain lets you live! Normally we just toss our captives overboard and send 'em to Davy Jones' locker!"

"You're making a mistake, whoever you are!" Rainbow growled. "We're Wonderbolts! If you do anything to us the rest of our teammates will surely come to avenge us!"

Captain Hook just laughed. "Let them try! Many a fool have thought they could best me in me element, and have payed the price for it! I shall enjoy making an example out of you two. It's just too bad you'll never again see your precious Equestria." And he stuck out his tongue in a taunting fashion as the two Wonderbolts were hurled into the cargo hold at the bottom of the ship, the hatch slamming shut and leaving them amidst the barrels, crates, and chests that rocked back and forth with the waves.





Now alone in the cargo hold as the ship sailed across the waters, Thunderlane looked across to his fellow Wonderbolt with his eyes narrowed in anger. "This is a fine mess you've gotten us into, Rainbow Dash. Now we're stuck here, prisoners of a pirate captain Spitfire specifically warned us not to cross paths with. And all because you wanted to play hero."

"I wasn't playing anything, Thunderlane!" Rainbow retorted. "Somepony had to put a stop to Captain Hook's plundering ways! We almost had him and his crew!"

"Almost isn't good enough!" Thunderlane growled. "Just what did you expect to happen?! Now, thanks to you, we're prisoners! And the cadets are probably running around doing Celestia knows what!"

But the brash speedster simply replied. "I know things look bad, Thunderlane. But just like Flash Magnus, we can't give up just because we're in a tight spot. Flash never gave up no matter what the odds, he was brave in that way."

"Just why do you look up to that Flash Magnus pony anyway?" Thunderlane pondered. "What is it about him that has you so impressed? I only remember briefly studying him, and the best I remember was that he served in the royal legion."

With a grin Rainbow replied. "Well, Thunderlane, I think it's time you heard the tale. The tale of how Flash Magnus proved his worth and saved his entire squadron from dragons," With a slight chuckle she added. "It might help to pass the time, seeing as we're not gonna be going anywhere anytime soon."

"Well, why not? At this point anything that could take my mind off my troubles is a good thing as far as I'm concerned." The Wonderbolt stallion answered with a sigh.

"Excellent," Rainbow happily replied. "It all started a long time ago, like before you or I were ever born."





Flash Magnus and Commander Ironhead had embarked on a mission to disputed territory near the dragon lands, and had taken along some of the most promising pegasi that the royal legion had to offer. Their goal was not to serve as instigators or aggressors, but rather peacekeepers. Commander Ironhead in particular had to caution the troops serving under him. "We're not here to start a war, take no weapons with you. Under no circumstances are you to engage the enemy in combat."

The territory through which they flew was far from welcoming, as it was close to the dragon lands it consisted of firey volcanoes, sharp rocks, and billowing smoke and ash clouds (not to mention sweltering heat). As a result it was difficult to see ahead, and thus it was not of particular worry to the elderly Ironhead when some of his troops lagged behind and got separated. "Keep a cool head about you, ponies," He advised. "Just follow the sound of my voice and we shall meet up again. I know this terrain like the back of my hoof, for I have flown back and forth over it many times since I was but a lowly rookie."

Flash Magnus followed his commander closely, dodging lava blasts and ducking under rock pillars in narrow canyons. "Commander, how much further is it to the rendezvous point?" He questioned. "It seems like we've been flying in circles."

"Patience, young Flash," Commander Ironhead politely replied in his low, gravely voice. "Not much further remains. I assure you I know the way well, we're not lost."

"But what about the others? We haven't heard from them in a while," Flash protested. "They might be in danger! I say we turn back now and go to find them!"

"That's a negatory, Flash Magnus!" Commander Ironhead barked out. "I won't risk you getting lost too! We will go out to look for them in due time, but for now we must make it to the designated rendezvous point. We'll be of much better use once we're well rested."

"But I thought the royal legion never leaves a pony behind!" Flash commented to his superior. "Please, Commander, let me go back! I want to make sure they're okay! If I was in danger, I know I'd want them to come to my aid! I couldn't call myself a member of the royal legion if I weren't willing to do the same."

At that Commander Ironhead stopped in his tracks, his eyes firmly locking onto Flash Magnus'. The old stallion could see a firey determination reflected in the young one's eyes, a determination that seemed unlikely to yield. Reluctantly, he sighed and conceded. "Alright, young Flash. If you truly wish to go out there, I won't stand in your way. But don't take all day, I can't risk losing you too."

"Don't worry, Commander!" Flash Magnus saluted with a hoof. "They don't call me Flash for nothing! I'll be back before you can count to ten, and with my fellow pegasi safely in tow to boot!"

"Well if you're going to go out there and risk your neck, you'll need this," Ironhead declared as he pulled out a shield that glistened in the sunlight. "This old shield has been passed down from commander to commander, waiting for the right pony to wield it. It is said it can only be properly used by a pony with a courageous determination that can't be broken. I believe you are the pony to which the legends speak of."

Flash accepted the shield, clutching it firmly in his hooves and holding it close to his chest. "Thank you for your generous gift, Commander. I'll cherish it to my dying day!" He vowed. "You head to the rendezvous point, and the rest of the troop and I shall meet you there."

"Just promise me you'll be safe, Flash," Ironhead cautioned to the young pegasus. "That shield will offer you more protection, but it won't make you invincible. You can't outfight or outfly dragons."

Flash Magnus grinned. "True, but you can outsmart them." And with that, with the shield in tow, he took off with a flap of his wings.

Commander Ironhead just sighed. "I hope I'm making the right decision on this one." He said to himself.





Flash flew back along the dangerous path through which he and Commander Ironhead had flown earlier, taking great care to avoid the rocks and lava geysers. All the while he made sure to keep the shield resting firmly on his back, but within easy reach of his hooves so that he could grab it at a moment's notice.

Suddenly, as he rounded a bend, the young stallion saw a sight that nearly stopped his heart! The three missing recruits (including his good friend Grimhoof) were locked inside a make-shift cage made of rocks, the jagged pillars serving as bars. And guarding the cage were a trio of ferocious dragons with scales that looked like they could break diamonds.

Still, the pegasus put on the bravest face he could muster up as he flew towards the tallest of the dragons, who sported a coat of organeish-yellow, eyes a ruby red, and dark brown scales. "Excuse me, Mister Dragon." He politely but firmly greeted.

"What do you want, little pony?" The dragon growled in response, smoke billowing out of his mouth.

Waving a hoof to fan the smoke away from him, Flash coughed for a bit before he regained his composure. "I've come to ask that you release my comrades from their stone prison! They're of no harm to you! We of the royal legion come in peace!"

The dragon simply roared in reply. "Peace?! Is that why you carry that huge shield on your back?! Is that why you ponies come dressed in full military attire?! I am not easily fooled! You ponies want these disputed lands for yourself even when they rightfully belong to the dragons!"

"What?! No, no, no! That's not what I mean at all!" Flash pleaded in protest. "Please, I don't want any trouble."

"Well too bad, because you just found it!" The dragon roared again! "When I'm through with you, you'll be joining your fellow legion members in that prison, and only when your commander agrees to surrender these lands to us will we be willing to let you go!" He proceeded to take a deep breath and inhale!

Thinking quickly, Flash drew his shield and held it out in front of him! It was a life saving decision, it protected him from the dragon's fire breath! He began to buzz all around the dragons as fast as he could, using his shield as necessary to block the fire breath attacks!

At last, seeing an opening, Flash swooped low! As the dragons tried in vain to claw at him, he managed to free his fellow pegasi and the three followed him out of the cave! All four pegasi flapping their wings as fast as they could, as one of the dragons knocked loose some rocks, and the cave collapsed, trapping the dragons inside!

Commander Ironhead was relieved to see the members of his squad safe and sound at the rendezvous point a short time later. And looking at Flash Magnus he said to him. "Well Flash, it seems even in my old age there is much still for me to learn. That was an excellent display of bravery and skill. I'd be honored to have you serve directly under me from now on!"

"Thank you, Commander!" Flash bowed to the elderly stallion.





"Well, that's quite an impressive story there, Rainbow Dash," Thunderlane commented. "I can see why you like Flash Magnus so much. But the difference is, he wasn't foolish enough to charge headlong into a losing battle. And he was smart enough to have a back-up plan. We don't have that," But when the pegasus stallion looked across to where his fellow Wonderbolt should be, he saw only an empty net. "Rainbow Dash?" He called out, before he suddenly felt his net be loosened and a pair of hooves snatch him up.

Rainbow immediately threw her hooves around Thunderlane to shush him. "Not so loud, Thunderlane," She whispered. "You're gonna give us away!"

"But, how did you escape?" Thunderlane wondered in a whisper. "Those nets are stronger than they look. I should know, I couldn't rip them apart with my teeth."

"A trick knife from Scootaloo's filly guide tool kit," Rainbow explained. "Her aunts were kind enough to give it to me, they said it was best if I held onto it instead of Scootaloo. Long story actually."

Thunderlane decided not to question his fellow pegasus. "Okay. So now that we're out of the nets, how are we gonna get off this ship?"

"The same way we got on," The speedster replied with a grin. "But first we've got to take care of that Smee griffon and the rest of the stragglers. Then we can give that mean old Hook a taste of his own medicine."

"And how are we going to do that?" The newest member of the Wonderbolts questioned.

"I have a plan. It's a long shot, but it should work so long as we move fast," Rainbow whispered the details to Thunderlane. "Think you can manage?"

Thunderlane gulped. "I'll... I'll try. But I hope you know what you're doing."





"Our prisoners have been awfully quiet since we threw 'em down into the cargo hold a while back, Smee," Captain Hook commented as he stroked his beard with his hook. "Reckon it might be best to ensure the scurvy landlubbers ain't thinkin' to be rebelling or anything like that."

"You want me to check the cargo hold, Captain?" Smee asked. "I don't think that's really necessary. We'll be back in international waters soon. Then we can dock at the nearest port and sell off our booty to live like kings."

At that Captain Hook pointed his hook claw at Smee and told his fellow griffon. "Perhaps I wasn't clear before, Smee, I expect you to do as you're told and not to talk back. Now get down there and be sure everything is as still as these waters, or else you'll be walking the plank!"

Smee gulped. "Aye aye, Captain!" He saluted. Reluctantly the griffon stormed his way down into the cargo hold while grumbling. "Why's he got it out for me? I'm not the one who wanted to add kidnapping to our long list of crimes. Sinking ships and pillaging towns was one thing, holding ponies captive was another," Looking around the cargo hold his wandering blue eyes noticed two empty nets. With a growl he gave a whistle, shouting to what few griffons remained onboard the ship after the earlier assault. "Hey, our stowaways have escaped! Get down here and help me search!"

A modest sized group of griffons soon descended on the cargo hold, searching every nook and cranny for any leads as to the whereabouts of their captives.

In doing so they unknowingly played right into the waiting hooves of Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane, using a set of ropes and nets they snatched up the pirates one or two at a time and tied them to chests and barrels, preventing them from calling for help.

When Smee was the only remaining griffon left, the two Wonderbolts emerged from hiding and threw a life-preserver over him, wedging it down so tightly that it was impossible for him to move. They then tied up his claws with ropes, tying them around a barrel.

"For pirates you sure aren't too bright," Thunderlane teased with a snicker. "You should've flown the coop when you had the chance. Now you'll meet the same fate as your captain."

"Arr, you be bluffing, matey!" Smee sneered and snarled. "Captain Hook won't be bested by a pair of landlubbers like you!"

"Indeed he shall not," A familiar scraggly voice taunted, soon revealing itself as none other than the fearsome Captain Hook himself. In his left claw he now clutched a sword. "You two ponies may have bested me crew but you shall find me a far more formidable opponent. But in keeping with the pirate's code of honor, I shall grant you the privilege of one final showdown to determine your fates."





Captain Hook flew up and out of the cargo hatch and Rainbow Dash and Thunderlane followed him. Soon they were all standing in the crow's nest as it rocked back and forth with the motion of the ship, a faint sea breeze whistling past.

"Normally I'd hold it on the deck, but since we all can fly I reckon there's no harm in rising the stakes a little!" Hook taunted. "Grab your swords and put up your dukes, we shall duel to the finish! Best me in fencing and you landlubbers are free to go. Lose, however, and the only place you'll go is straight to Davy Jone's Locker, where you can sleep with the fishes!" He then tossed two swords to his opponents. "It's only fair to warn you, not an enemy yet has bested me at fencing. You'll see why I've earned my reputation as the most feared pirate captain of the sea!"

"Enough talk! Have at you, you scurvy ridden seadog!" Rainbow jeered. "There's two of us against one of you! You won't win!"

"Yeah, the odds are against you!" Thunderlane replied as he clutched his sword with his hooves. "I'd give up right now if I were you."

Captain Hook just growled, swinging his sword at the two ponies. "Nonsense, Captain Hook is no quitter! That you shall soon learn!"

Rainbow swung her sword to counter Hook's and Thunderlane did the same, but Hook proved to be quite the swordsgriffon. With the greatest of ease he seemed to be able to force his opponents out of the crow's nest and onto the surrounding beams. And the breeze and the rocking of the ship did not help matters, it made balancing all the more difficult.

"I did warn you, me harties," Hook taunted as he pointed his sword at the two pegasi as they stood at the edge of the beam near the sails. "Looks like you're out of ideas. Any final words?"

"How about, who's steering your ship?" Thunderlane questioned. "Think about it: You're here, dueling us. And the rest of your crew is tied up in the cargo hold. Your ship is drifting aimlessly, I'd say it's a miracle it hasn't crashed or run aground yet."

"What?!" Hook growled and then he gasped! "Oh no!" He threw down his sword and swooped down to the deck to try and grasp the steering wheel. But it was too late, with a sickening scraping noise the ship's hull began to drag along the sandy shores of Baltimare's beach and at that it grounded to a halt.

Rainbow just grinned. "While you were busy rambling on, Hook, I took the liberty of re-directing your ship's course. You're now officially in Equestria's domain, and you know what that means."

Hook's eyes grew wide with horror and he gasped anew! "No! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! It can't be! This isn't how it should end!"





Baltimare authorities quickly raided the ship, rounded up Hook and his crew, and returned all the cargo he had stolen from the residents of Baltimare. The rest of his cargo was left on the ship until it could be determined how to best return all the stolen goods to their rightful owners.

The cadets were quite surprised to see Rainbow and Thunderlane return to the hotel that night, exhausted and ready to collapse. But they both insisted it was for an unrelated reason, and cautioned the cadets not to say a word.

When the retreat was over, Rainbow and Thunderlane began the fly back to Cloudsdale. And Rainbow took the time to comment. "You know something, Thunderlane? We make a pretty good team."

"We sure do, Rainbow Dash. But I hope this will be my last big adventure for the time being," Thunderlane replied. "One is enough for my lifetime, thank you."

"Well that's too bad," Rainbow playfully ribbed. "Still, I'll respect your decision. But if you ever change your mind, just let me know."

"Very funny, Rainbow Dash," Thunderlane retorted. "Just remember, we both agreed not to say a word about any of this."

"Who would believe me if I told them," Rainbow gave a knowing wink. "I'm just glad that now I'll have several weeks off to rest. I hear Scootaloo and her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders are planning this interesting daycamp for blank flanks."

At that Thunderlane's ears perked up. "A daycamp for blank flanks you say? That sounds like it would be right up Rumble's alley. He could use some friends at his age."

"And I'm sure Scootaloo and the Crusaders will be glad to have him," Rainbow replied. "You should totally pick up a flyer the next time you get a chance."