//------------------------------// // Out on the Town // Story: Life’s a Beach // by Auto-Buscus //------------------------------// The admiration of the beach among the twelve had lasted only a few more minutes before their silence was broken. Many of them were still alternating between glancing at each other and just looking out and looking forward to the relaxing time they were sure they’d have the next couple of weeks. “So… are we going to just stand here and gawk all day or what?” Pinkie said at last. “Yes, I suppose we should probably figure out how we’re going to spend the next few hours.” Rarity said in agreement. “Well,” Singer said as he turned around and faced the town on the other side of the road. “As the resident Waytona Beach expert, I do recommend we go check out what lies behind us. True, I haven’t been here since I was twelve, but it doesn’t really look much different from the last time I was here. There’s all sorts of neat places to check out.” “Yeah. Singer’s right.” Sunset concurred. “Besides I don’t know about you guys, but I’m famished!” “I could eat.” Rainbow said, trying not to make eye contact with Singer. “Maybe we should split up.” “Now there’s a fantastic idea, Rainbows!” Zephyr said. Rainbow growled when he spoke. Why did he have to be here again? Her demeanor soured more and more by the second. “You guys can go hang out in the town. And I’ll sit here and take in the scenery.” The unwanted guest said as he noticed a bunch of girls playing volleyball downwind. “That is, if nobody has any objections?” He nudged Dash, who’s response was a quick jerk away from him, after which she hid behind Applejack and Ray. “No offense, but I don’t think anyone is going to object to that, Zeppy.” Pinkie said. “Didn’t think so. Thanks for the free ride to the beach, my friends. Now it’s time to partake of the perks. Look at all these fine looking ladies out there. Gonna see if any of them want to ride the Breezy Train tonight! Choo! Choo!” “I swear…” Ray muttered. “I swear I’m gonna…” “Ray, Ray, calm down.” Applejack said, patting him on the back. “He ain’t worth gettin worked up over.” Ray sighed. “I was gonna say that I was about to barf. But, you’re right, you’re right. Sorry AJ.” “Ain’t no thing. Jus’ remember that we’re here ta have fun. All the rest will take care a’ itself.” “Please remember to mind your manners,” Fluttershy said to Zephyr. “And don’t do anything that will get you into trouble. Oh and don’t take that as me not being mad at you because I’m still mad.” “Psh, yeah we all know how that always turns out.” Zephyr walked off, leaving them to whatever plans they would make for the evening. “If you have any more parting words of wisdom, please hurry. I have a schedule to keep.” Fluttershy scowled, she was not happy with how he’d acted so far, however it’s not like she expected anything less. But still, she couldn’t help but feel disappointed. “Anyway, we should probably get going.” Sunset said, trying to ease the tension she could sense building. “What would we even do?” asked Flash. “Well according to what I’ve found online, there’s a social club just a couple of blocks over. It’s got a ton of five star reviews and it has great food.” “How do we know it’s safe?” Applejack asked suspiciously. “You can’t argue with ‘Five Star Reviews’.” “Ah guess that’s true.” “Why are we still talking about it? Let’s go before Zephyr changes his mind!” Rainbow urged. “I agree with Rainbow Dash! Let’s a go!” Pinkie shouted, having pulled out a fake mustache. On the side, while all of that was going on, Rarity and Dusk were having a conversation of their own. “Dusk, I just had a wonderful idea.” Rarity said to him while the others had been talking among themselves. “I believe this would be the perfect opportunity for us to set up a double date with Singer and Twilight. Especially considering the… conflict between he and Rainbow Dash at the moment.” “I suppose so, but we aren’t really dressed for such a thing and it’s not like we can change clothes right now.” He replied. “Oh pish posh. I know this might sound a bit off coming from me, but we’re on vacation. In a tourist town no less. Besides, what I’m wearing is fine, and the same goes for you. Our outward appearance is inconsequential this time around and we can always schedule a proper one for later.” “Well if this is what you want to do, then I’m in. However, we should probably ask them fairly quickly before they get swept off with everyone else.” “Not to worry, I’m all over it.” Rarity said, as she started off towards where the couple in question had been standing off on their own themselves. Twilight had been in conversation with Singer, the latter of whom had his back to Rarity’s approaching position. When the former looked up and noticed her coming, she greeted her with a smile. “Oh, hello Rarity. Everything alright?” “Just fine, darling.” She began. “How are you?” “Honestly? We’re doing great! It’s such a relief to finally be here. And I see you and Dusk are doing alright for yourselves.” “Quite well, actually. We were actually just discussing an idea that I just had.” “Oh?” “We were wondering, if you hadn’t already made plans, that is, if you and Singer would like to join us on a double date for lunch.” Twilight looked surprised by this, but she didn’t appear to have any objections judging by her smile. “Wow, that could be fun. We’ve never done a double date before. Um, what do you think, Singer?” “Hey sounds better than what I was about to suggest. Laser tag. Like, grow up dude. Am I right?” He said nervously. It was like the first few times of dating Twilight all over again. Only in this instance, he wasn’t near as nervous. Perhaps it was because he and Twilight had gotten so comfortable around each other. But now, adding another couple to the mix? He would have been lying if he said that wasn’t a bit nervous about it. Apparently he’d done a bad job at hiding it. “Actually, I’m a keen shot at laser tag.” Rarity said. “Not to brag, but I boast the high score at ‘Laser Towne’ back home. That’s actually a really fun suggestion. But, I do have to ask, are you alright? You seem a bit flustered.” “I… yeah I’m fine. I guess I’m just a tad bit nervous about the idea of a…” he stopped when that tidbit had sunk in about what she’d said about her high score back home. “Wait! The shot record belongs to… you? I’ve been trying to dethrone that record for years!” And just like that, he’d snapped out of his nervousness. Rarity giggled at his sudden change of tone. “Yes, well that was a good day. And it was quite an effective stress reliever.” “Laser tag does sound fun to me as well.” Dusk said. “However, I think we should probably eat first. I’m beginning to get a bit hungry.” “I think we all are.” Twilight said. “What sounds good for lunch?” “I know one thing we all should be able to agree on. Pizza.” Rarity said as she looked to the others for confirmation. “‘Pizza Plaza’, if it’s still open and running, always has the best pizza in town.” Singer threw in. “I’d be lying if I said that I wasn’t looking forward to that.” “Good news! It’s still open!” Twilight said as she happily showed them her phone’s screen displaying the hours and other information about the place. “Well then, I guess it’s unanimous then?” Dusk said with a smile. “I guess so.” Singer replied. “You guys are going to love this place.” “I’ll hold you to that.” Rarity said jokingly. And with that, they started off that way. They didn’t mind walking a couple of blocks. And it made time for some good conversation along the way. Dusk had called Ray and informed him of their plans, to which he understood and relayed the information to everyone else. The first day in Waytona was looking promising now. Zephyr remained on the beach to where he couldn’t mess with any one’s plans. And the couples had gone off on a double date. That just left the remaining seven to hang out and have a good time. The social club was a relatively new establishment. The building was new, and it had a lot of arcade games, a bowling alley, a dance floor for adults over eighteen, and a bar, however, none of them were twenty one yet, so that was off. There wasn’t really any one of them that really wanted to drink anyway. Pinkie Pie immediately ran over to the ‘Dance Dance Revolution’ Game and began to play, racking up points instantly with her quick footing. It wasn’t long before she was joined by Rainbow Dash, who tried as desperately as she could to keep up, but Pinkie was in her element at that point in time. Flash had challenged Ray to ski ball. It wasn’t really a game that they could directly challenge each other in, aside from seeing who could hit the higher score. Flash was blown away when Ray managed to hit the highest paying holes almost every time. “Alright, dude. Why don’t we take this to the bowling alley?” Flash said. “You’re on! I’ll go see if we can get any of the others on board.” “I’ll go ask Sunset!” He blurted. “And a couple of the others…” Flash looked to see if Ray had any reaction to what he’d just said, but he’d apparently missed it because he didn’t even acknowledge it. Good. He’d try to do better about saying things like that out loud in the future. “Hey AJ, are you up for a game of bowling?” Ray asked Applejack who was walking by. “Sure thing! Ah’ll go grab Rainbow Dash!” As Flash looked around at the various games, it wasn’t long until he saw her. She was playing Whack-A-Mole and doing a decent job at it, he’d noticed. This was his chance. He’d hoped to get up the nerve to talk to her. As he approached, his heart fluttered. He’d never had this much trouble talking to her in the past. Even when they’d been in a not-so-healthy relationship a couple of years prior. Something was different this time though. She wasn’t the same person she was when he’d dated her previously. She was changed, and an all around better person. Flash recognized this and viewed her accordingly. As he got closer, he admired her beautiful hair. Her long streaky red and yellow hair. He quickly met her face to face as she turned around when she noticed he was approaching. She looked at him with her cyan colored eyes and it just stopped him in his tracks. He froze. “Dude, you okay?” She asked, as his gaze lingered. “Flash. Come on man, you’re kind of weirding me out here.” He shook his head and screwed his eyes. “Oh, yeah… yeah. I, uh… was just distracted by something.” “Oh, okay.” She said, obliviously. “Was there something that you needed?” “Yes… I was wondering if you’d like to go bowling. Ray and I are getting everyone together.” “You’re just asking to lose if you play against me, you know that right?” She said with a smirk, followed by a playful wink. “Yeah, I’ll go bowling with you.” “With me? I mean. Yes! Bowling! Let’s go!” “Are you sure you’re okay, Flash?” “Of course! Why wouldn’t I be?” He said nervously. “Um… let’s not keep everyone waiting, shall we?” Sunset narrowed her eyes and pondered for a second. He’d been acting very strange. She wondered if his behavior had anything to do with her specifically, or something else. A thought had come to her mind, but she quickly dismissed it. How could he want her back? After the way she treated him? No, there had to be something else bothering him. Her compassionate side was beginning to surface, however. Whatever was bothering him, she wanted to try and help him. She felt like she owed him that much, especially being that they were friends again. She decided to stop thinking to herself and swiftly followed Flash to the bowling alley. When they both had drawn closer, they had noticed that Ray had gathered the remaining girls and were dividing into teams. There had been an uneven number of people playing, but it wasn’t an issue as bowling was more about the individual score of each player at the end of the day. Flash’s mind had shifted over the past few minutes. His head wasn’t in the competitive zone anymore. All he could think about was Sunset. But suddenly, a light flickered on in his head. He’d only just remembered that the whole reason for starting this game was a friendly challenge between him and Ray. He tried to snap himself back into it. They had split off into two lanes beside each other. Everyone had rented their bowling shoes and were ready to go. They also fixed their hunger problem by ordering a giant bowl of nachos to which everyone would split the cost later. Flash had been teamed up with Rainbow and Pinkie while Fluttershy, Applejack and Sunset were on Ray’s lane. He was first one up, while Ray started first for his respective lane. Flash hesitated, letting Ray display his bowling prowess first. Ray allowed the ball to roll off his hand from the right side of the lane and it gradually rolled towards the center, hitting the pins just right at the end, giving him a strike right away. “Those pins just got Ray Stricken!” Pinkie shouted gleefully with a laugh. “Great job, Ray!” “What can I say? It’s in the name.” Ray said as he got his bowling ball for his second bowl, and came back with another nine pins hit. “Aw! So close!” “That’s wut happens when ya get cocky, Ray.” Applejack chuckled. “Hey, I still only left one out there at the end.” Ray said, motioning to his score on the board. Flash shook his head. He mentally prepared himself as he stepped up to the line. He took a deep breath and rolled his ball, guttering it immediately. “Come on, Flash! Don’t tell me that you’re making us wait just to watch you gutter the ball!” Dash said. “Hey! Lay off, Dash!” Sunset said. “He’s trying to concentrate.” “I’ll lay off when he decides to actually show up.” Flash shut out all the noise, picked up another bowling ball and got back at it for his second try. He did much better on his second ball. He knocked down five pins. Not great but not zero either. He felt a little better, but he knew he probably wouldn’t beat Ray at bowling in this game unless Ray just completely blew the next few turns. As he went to sit down, he felt a hand on his shoulder. It was Sunset, who looked at him sympathetically, and he returned her gaze. “Look, I don’t know what’s going on, but if you ever need to talk. Let me know, okay? I’m here for you.” “Oh, thank you,” Flash replied to her, watching her walk by with a smile as she went to take her turn. Rainbow Dash had already gotten a strike of her own, and backed it up with another one. “Eat your heart out, Ray!” She said blowing air off her fingers as if they were pistols after a duel. “Aw man! I’ve gotta pick up my game here.” Ray said as Applejack took her turn. She managed to get a five and five spare on her first bowl, while Pinkie Pie might as well have shot hers out of a cannon because she mirrored Rainbow Dash by getting two strikes right away as well. Fluttershy was the last one up. She picked up the lightest ball she could fit her fingers in, walked to the line and took a deep breath and… she rolled it. Slowly but surely it rolled. Not leaning over to any side. Just staying dead in the center. Pinkie had been to and from the snack area with a bag of M&Ms before the ball finally made contact with the first pin in its path. She and everyone else watched patiently, Rainbow to a lesser extent, as they waited for something to happen. The slight touch to the pins, once the ball had reached the end, somehow caused a chain reaction, making all of the pins fall over. STRIKE! The others cheered and they all picked up Fluttershy, who at first was shocked at this but realized quickly that this was a celebration. “Nothing is going to top that for the rest of the day!” Rainbow proclaimed. “Way to go, Flutters!” Ray shouted. “That has to be the most cartoonishly over the top thing I’ve ever seen playing a game of bowling.” “Go Fluttershy!” Sunset screamed. Pinkie did all of that plus fired off her mini party cannon. Fluttershy was taken aback but was no less joyful than everyone around her. “I did it!” As they placed her down, she was briefly brought to sadness by one thought. One person who wasn’t there with them to celebrate what she’d done. Her brother. It quickly passed when she got a pat on her back from Rainbow Dash, and the game continued on. The two couples had finally made their way to the restaurant after about two blocks of walking. None of them were tired per say, but it took a while to get there, especially since Singer had insisted on stopping by a clothing store to get a new pair of jeans so he wouldn’t be in just shorts on a date, and they were ready for whatever the establishment had to offer. The building wasn’t anything fancy but you could tell it had been there for a long time. But according to Singer, the Pizza place had been there since he was small at least, so this was very promising. He had been excited to see a sign plastered on the outside that had indicated that they’d opened a buffet since the last time he’d been there. “Okay! You are going to flip! This pizza is the best in town and they have a buffet now!” He’d said ecstatically. “Oh boy…” Twilight tittered. “I think we just lost him, everyone.” Dusk and Rarity laughed at this themselves before the former added to it. “It’s fairly easy to get lost in a buffet, you know. So many choices.” “You see? This guy gets it!” Singer exclaimed before being playfully pushed in the doorway by Twilight. Once inside they paid the buffet fee, went through the line with their plates and found a good table to sit at. “This was a great idea, thank you for inviting us to have this date with you.” Twilight said. “This is a first for both of us.” “It’s quite alright, Twilight.” Rarity said. “I’ve been wanting to do this for quite some time. It’s just after the Glee Club fiasco and finals, everything just got so busy.” “Not to mention you two getting together.” Singer said. “I don’t think I got to offer my congratulations, yet. So congrats you two! If I might say, you make a nice couple.” “Thank you Singer. I have to say, this couldn’t have happened at a better time.” She said as she and Dusk looked at each other warmly. “And I have to offer the same compliment to the two of you. Don’t think I didn’t notice your little moment on the bus. It was quite sweet.” “Thank you.” Twilight said while she blushed. “We generally try to keep our displays of affection private, but sometimes we get caught up in the moment.” “It happens.” Dusk said. “So, if you don’t mind me asking, when did it happen? You two, getting together, I mean?” Singer asked before he took a bite out of a slice of supreme pizza. “It started at the Aftermath Party the morning following the Glee Incident.” Dusk said. “We talked for a few minutes and once we got a chance to break away, we left for a coffee shop in town and talked it over.” “Which is where we made it official.” She said as she placed her hand on his. “Dusk, I didn’t think you liked coffee.” Twilight said with a smirk. “I must admit, I had hot chocolate.” He smiled sheepishly. “But the atmosphere of the establishment was very calming and relaxing. Very good call on your part, my dear.” He said as he lightly kissed Rarity on her cheek. “Aaaaaaw!” Singer gushed. “Sorry. I don’t usually do that. It’s just you guys are so cute together. Kinda reminds me of another couple I know.” His eyes and smile shifted towards Twilight, who reached over and held his hand. “Us. I was talking about us, if that wasn’t clear.” “It was.” Rarity replied. “And yes, I’m very much on board with you two. I must say you treat Twilight very well.” “I try to, always.” Singer said reaching over and pulling her close to him for a moment. “I really appreciate you, Rarity. You’ve been a good friend in all of this. And I’m glad things worked out for you and Dusk. I really am.” “Thank you, Singer and it was my pleasure. And for what it’s worth, I’m sorry about what happened this morning. I know you wouldn’t do something like that on purpose. It’s probably on the rest of us more than you for not communicating about Zephyr in the first place. This isn’t the first time he’s tried this.” “Thanks Rarity. I just hope nothing bad happens because of it.” “It won’t,” Dusk added. “Rainbow will eventually come around, and things will get back on track soon, I just know it.” “I sure hope so.” Singer said as he looked down a bit. He was clearly still somewhat worried about possible consequences of his mistake. “Oh, I remember what I was saying on the bus.” Twilight said, looking over to him. “Before you distracted me. I said if you don’t cheer up, I’ll be forced to…” she tickled his side, making him jump. “Yah! Hey! Knock it off!” He grinned at her mischievously. “You’re lucky we’ve got company and are in public or it would totally be on.” “Sorry, I couldn’t resist!” She beamed. “My, my, you two have grown closer over the past few weeks, haven’t you?” Rarity said observingly. “Maybe a little.” Twi blushed, focusing on what was left of her salad and pizza. “Got a little carried away there. Sorry.” “It’s fine.” Rarity had a grin of her own. “It is only natural. Just something to look forward to.” She glanced over at Dusk, who was blushing, trying to play it off by focusing more on his food. “Actually, Twilight. Would you care to join me in the ladies room?” It took Twilight a second but it dawned on her. She’d seen in movies where this would happen on double dates, so she didn’t say much more after that. She nodded and followed Rarity away from the table. But not without glancing back at Singer with a smile as she did. And there they were. Dusk and Singer alone at the table. They’d talked together well enough with their girlfriends present, but now it was just the two of them. It took them a minute, but a conversation was finally ignited between the two when Singer finally spoke up. “That’s interesting. Hey, if we have to step aside and talk, we don’t have to go to the men’s room do we?” Singer asked, half joking and half because he literally had no idea. “Because that would be a little weird.” “I think our version of that would be stepping outside for some fresh air.” Dusk laughed, and Singer nodded in response. “I must say, I’m having a good time so far. You and Twilight are really fun to be around.” “Thanks. You and Rarity are cool too.” Singer replied, eating a carrot stick off his own plate. “So you and Rarity go back, then?” Dusk asked, noting that he and Rarity seemed to be somewhat comfortable talking to each other. “A little. When I first came on the scene at Canterlot U, it was her, Sunset and Rainbow Dash who first reached out to me after I reunited with Twilight after summer break following high school graduation. She and Sunset knew right away what was going on, me liking Twilight I mean, and they both helped me out.” “They are pretty great. All of them are, really.” Dusk said. “I always appreciate Twilight’s insight, Pinkie’s energy, Sunset’s supportive nature, Fluttershy’s kindness, Rainbow’s drive, Applejack’s no nonsense approach, Ray’s… well we both know what makes Ray great, and then there’s Rarity. Every day with her is wonderful.” “You’re right. They’re all really cool. Aside from my feelings for Twilight, I have to admit I was always kind of drawn in by the atmosphere that you and your friends set. You guys have such a bond that’s rare in other friendship groups. And as Twi’s boyfriend it makes me feel better to know she’s friends with you all because I know you’ll take care of her when I’m not around. In what short amount of time I’ve known you and the others, you’ve really made an impact on me too.” “Well… I… you’re welcome. I-I didn’t realize we had that big of an impact on you.” “Oh yeah. I’ve always thought you were cool, Dusk. All of you really.” “I’ve been called many things in my life but cool is among the more rare of them. I think Ray and Rainbow Dash have referred to me as such on one occasion or another. But nonetheless, I appreciate the sentiment. And for what it’s worth, I think you’re pretty cool, too.” “Thanks man. I’m definitely happy for the chance to get to know you all better. Twi’s important to me, and I want to maintain some harmony with her circle… well I guess it’s becoming our circle now.” “You definitely come around a lot more than you used to.” “Yeah, it’s not that I didn’t like you guys before. I guess I was kind of intimidated by the large group at first. But recent events have kind of made me more comfortable, I guess.” “It’s alright, Singer. I can see where you’re coming from. Honestly you’re handling it better than I did when I first came along. Let’s just say I used to be rather pathetic. I actually used to be something of a loner who never saw any value in myself. Never being able to take a compliment, always berating myself over every mistake.” “What? You? You’re kidding, right?” Singer said, before he stopped to ponder something. What Dusk used to be, sounded an awful lot like what Singer was afraid he was starting to become at times. If it wasn’t for Twilight being in his life, he wasn’t sure that he wouldn’t be right now. Events in high school had eaten away at his confidence, and though he was somewhat on the road to getting over that, he found himself struggling to let go of his own past. Dusk would have normally taken a response like Singer’s as a sarcastic remark, but he knew that Singer probably had no idea what he used to be like. And that was one friend he was thankful to have that didn’t know him that way. True, he was still growing as a person, but he definitely felt way better about things than he used to. Especially now that he had Rarity by his side. “I’m afraid not. But, that's okay. I’m not that person anymore. I mean, I still have my moments but it’s not as bad as it once was.” Dusk smiled at the thought. “You know, somehow knowing that makes me feel a bit better about my own situation. I’m glad we’ve had our talk, Dusk. You’ve given me something to think about.” “I’m glad and if you ever need to talk, I’m here and I will try to help where I can, though Rarity is far better inclined to give advice than I am. Honestly, from what I can tell, you’re a genuinely nice person. Especially looking back at what Twilight told us about how you two got together. What you did for her after she had that awful fall was very sweet.” “I mean… At the time, I didn’t know what came over me. I just knew that I liked her and cared about her, and seeing her hurt set something off in me that went into full protection mode. She brings out the best in me. But after being with her for all these months, I know that it’s what happens when you love-…” He stopped and put his hand over his mouth but slowly removed it. “Huh…” Dusk had caught it too, but was genuinely unsure of how to respond to that. It was clearly the first time that Singer had ever thought about it, and he wasn’t sure if he should say anything. Fortunately, the girls would return almost on cue as it would seem. Both guys snapped out of it and their faces lit up when their girlfriends returned to the table. “Sorry about that, boys…” Rarity said, taking her seat next to Dusk. “Not a problem, my dear.” Dusk said. “We were able to manage without you for a minute. Just barely.” Dusk winked. “Actually we had quite the insightful conversation. But we are glad you’ve both returned to us.” “Oh yeah. For sure.” Singer said as he took Twilight by the hand once she’d sat down beside him. She briefly snuggled up to him before she resumed to finish her salad. “I hope you two didn’t have too much fun talking about us while we were away.” Rarity winked. “Not to worry. We had a nice conversation.” Dusk said. “Yep! I like Dusk even more now!” Singer smiled. “A real pal.” “Well, I’d say that this date has been a success so far.” Twilight said. “I’m really looking forward to the next double date.” “Would you excuse me for a second? I just want to get one more plate of pizza, and then I’ll be good to go.” Singer said. Twi nodded and he was off. Dusk, feeling like he could go for a little bit more, did the same. Dusk walked up next to Singer who was scoping out the bar for his favorite pizzas. He’d noticed that Dusk was there, and nodded before speaking again. “So, uh. You won’t say anything to Twi or Rarity about what I said back there, will you?” “Of course not. But… are you going to?” Dusk asked. “I-It doesn’t seem like something that you should keep from her.” “Oh, yeah. I know. I just need the perfect timing. It’s just a bit nerve wracking because I don’t want to say it and freak her out.” “The best course of action I can think of would be to be patient with her. If she doesn’t return the sentiment right away, don’t rush her. I have no doubts that she will eventually.” “Yeah, that’s good advice. I like that. Thanks man.” He said, patting him on the shoulder. “No problem. I wish you the best, my friend.” The two returned to their seats with a few pieces of pizza on their plates. Reuniting with their respective dates once again where they would continue to have pleasant conversations, and finish their meals. The game had ended. Out of all of them, Rainbow Dash had blown everyone out of the water. Especially with her maxing out on her last turn. Pinkie had the second highest score with Sunset and Ray tying for the third highest. Applejack, Fluttershy and Flash didn’t fare too horribly, but they clearly didn’t have as good of a game as the others. Applejack, in particular, wasn't thrilled about Dash having the highest score because she knew she’d be hearing more from her as the night went on. But such is the price of not winning. After they turned their bowling shoes back in, they went to the concession area and grabbed a more substantial meal that would keep them from being hungry until later that night. Applejack and Ray got burgers, Pinkie and Fluttershy settled for a couple of slices of pizza, Rainbow selected a deli meat sandwich, while Flash and Sunset ordered chicken tenders. “Oh my gosh guys!” Pinkie said between sips of her soda. “That was so much fun! Imagine how much more fun we’re going to have at the beach tomorrow!” “Oh yes, I’m really looking forward to exploring the tide pools, making sand castles, and scuba diving.” Fluttershy said. “There are a ton of things we can do over the next couple of weeks. I even took the liberty of making a list of things people usually do at the beach. I’m getting giddy just thinking about it.” Ray said as he pulled out his phone and looked at the list he’d made. “Volleyball, we can iron out the details on that when the time comes, surfing for those brave enough, just a bunch of cool things to do.” “We can get a grill for a barbecue party.” Flash threw in. “Now we’re talking!” Rainbow threw in. “Oooh, y’all better be cooking that barbecue right. Otherwise, Ah’ll have ta step in and show ya how it’s done.” Ray liked the sound of that. And apparently so did the others. “Guys I know we literally just ate but I’m already looking forward to that in particular.” Their conversations would go on for about fifteen minutes or so but came to a screeching halt when Pinkie and Sunset, who had walked off and been absent for a few minutes, came back to where the others were still sitting, beaming with excitement. “Hey everybody!” Pinkie said as she led Sunset over to them. “The Dance Floor is about to open! We should do some dancing!” “We literally just ate.” Flash said. “Shouldn’t we let our stomachs settle first?” “Aw come on, Flash! We didn’t eat that heavy. What do you say?” Sunset said to him. It didn’t take much convincing for him to change his mind, especially since Sunset had wanted to. Plus, maybe it could give them an opportunity to talk. “On second thought, you’re right. I’m down!” “Aw yeah! I’m down too!” Rainbow Dash said. “It’ll be great to get down on the dance floor to some funky music. And perhaps relieve some stress as well.” “Ah reckon.” Said AJ a bit reluctantly. “Hey don’t worry, AJ we can get out there and be awkward together. Deal?” Ray said, extending a hand to her. “Well if yer doin it, Ah don’t see the harm. Aight, Ah’ll do it too.” She shook his hand before they followed the others. Fluttershy brought up the rear but didn’t appear to have any objections. She just stuck with the group, still thinking about things. There had been other people already out on the dance floor dancing to the end of a slower song. They stood to the side waiting, and hoping for a banger to be played next. As the song ended, a disco ball deployed and hung from the ceiling. This looked promising. The lights shown, beaming across the room, onto the floor and off the disco ball, and a popular disco song from decades ago came on the speakers. “Now that’s what I’m talking about!” Dash exclaimed as she took to the dance floor. She led them all in busting out some moves. She did a lot of hopping in her steps as the song was perfectly suited for it. Occasionally she’d clap her hands to the clapping that was heard in the beat of the music. It wasn’t long before Pinkie and Fluttershy joined her. They rocked their arms from side to side and clapped their hands along with the music and shuffled their steps. Ray and AJ both exchanged apprehensive smiles before they too jumped on the dance floor and decided to freestyle. AJ performing more line dancing influenced footwork while Ray jammed out like he didn’t care. Sunset grabbed Flash’s hand as they swung around with both of their hands held before separating to freestyle themselves. Pinkie all of a sudden appeared between them and began to bust out some breakdancing moves. She rocked her arms and then began to spin around at first on her knees, then on her back before spinning on her head. She then kicked her legs to where she could give herself enough air to land on her feet again. This gained cheers not only from her friends, but the other strangers out there. There were two others who’d found their way there who were grateful that their students were preoccupied watching each other dance, as Celestia and Luna, dressed in their dancing attire, including but not limited to headbands and dancing suits, themed according to their colors, shuffled to the side to hide in the background of some random people also busting moves. Rainbow took the spotlight once again as she zipped her pointed fingers from side to side while rocking her knees. She then moved into moonwalking before spinning around and pointing both fingers at Sunset and Flash. Flash and Sunset then got in a waltz position and speed danced around while the others laughed. Not to make fun, but just cutting up and goofing off. Then they got in a circle while each of them took a turn free styling for about thirty seconds a piece. First it was Rainbow Dash dancing footloose style, then Pinkie Pie doing the Sprinkler, Fluttershy chose to dance the Macarena, Flash folded his arms and kicked his legs, Ray couldn’t think of anything else to do so he basically copied Flash, Sunset was doing the Gangnam Style dance and she immediately got shoved aside by Applejack who continued her line dancing. They then devolved into just doing random freestyle dances for the remainder of the song. By the time the song was over, they had all been danced out. Rainbow could be seen chugging a water bottle as she led Fluttershy, Ray, Applejack and Pinkie Pie out of the dance room. Flash, however, had worked up the nerve after all of the dancing and lightly tapped Sunset on the shoulder as she looked like she was about to leave. Sunset turned around and smiled at him when she felt his hand touch her. “Hey.” She said, “You alright?” “Actually, yeah. I couldn’t be better. You think I could have one last dance for the evening?” Sunset continued her gaze, still smiling at him. “Yeah, I’d like that.” Fortunately for them, the next song they played was another slower song. Flash and Sunset got into position, with his hands on her hips and her arms over his shoulders around his neck. “This brings back memories, huh?” Flash said. “Yeah, probably not good ones for you to recount.” Sunset said, almost hanging her head down. “I was just awful to you when we dated, Flash. I don’t think I ever properly apologized for that. But I truly am sorry.” “It wasn’t all bad. Like the memory I was just referring to. Our first dance at the Fall Formal in Junior Year. You seem to forget that we had some good times back then too. Besides, the other stuff from the past is where it should be. The past.” “But…” “No buts… remember what you told me earlier? If I needed help with anything, just ask?” Sunset nodded. “Well, I do. Sort of. I need you to understand that I don’t see you as that person anymore, Sunset. You’ve become a far better person than you had become a few years ago, and I feel like you’ve held onto that long enough.” “So what are you saying?” She asked. “I’m saying that, I regret breaking up with you, Sunset. I have feelings for you. Again.” Sunset was taken aback. She’d never in a million years expect Flash to ever want to talk to her again, let alone ask her out again. She wasn’t sure exactly what it was that came over her in that moment, but she felt herself about to tear up. “Sunset, I’m sorry I didn’t mean to…” He was stopped mid sentence when she gave him a big hug. “Thank you.” “Would you like to finish this outside?” He asked. She nodded with tears still falling from her eyes, and her lip quivering a bit. They walked outside onto a back stairway and continued their conversation. The song could still be heard faintly playing in the background. “Flash, I… don’t know what to say. But… Thank you. That really means a lot.” “You’re welcome. I’m sorry it took me so long to say it.” She wiped her eyes and hugged him once more. “Flash, you have every right to be bitter towards me, but the fact that you aren’t, just… you don’t know what that means to me. I don’t feel like I deserve it.” “You do. You’ve done plenty to make up for your past. You’re better now than you ever were. And that’s the version of you that I thought I liked in High School. Now it’s reality. Besides, I’m not blameless and I made mistakes too. I’m just willing to give us another chance.” “Flash, you’re very sweet. But I don’t know if I can just jump back into a relationship, especially after a long time of dealing with my regrets, especially regarding you. I still need to come to terms with everything. And then, maybe. But don’t think that I don’t want to give us another chance. I just need some time.” Flash, though he was hopeful she’d be willing to try again, was realistic in his expectations. He’d halfway expected her to dismiss the idea all together. But at least he had that hope. It told him that she was thinking about it too. All he could do now is give her the time and space she needed. “Whatever you need, Sunset. I’m here for you.” “Would you like to finish the dance?” She said as she wiped the last of her tears from her face. “Yeah. I would.” He smiled as they got in position and said nothing. Just focusing on the moment, enjoying what was left of the dance. In the dark black light painted room, lasers were being shot in every direction. The sounds of laughter, screaming and lasers echoed through the course. Suddenly, out of the artificial smoke, ran Singer and Rarity, who’d teamed up to take out some unsuspecting teenagers, decked in the laser tag vests with sensors on the torso, back and shoulders and even the blasters for points when someone shot them there. “Come on!” Shouted one of them as the three random teens fled that section of the maze-like laser tag course. “This was a fantastic idea, Singer.” She said as they stood back to back. “I haven’t done this in quite a while! EAT LASER RUFFIAN!” She fired at a random bald guy who’d tried to get her earlier. “No problem. However, you realize that once we get a certain amount of points, we have to turn on each other right? I can’t let you continue with that record.” “I understand.” She giggled. “But for now this temporary criss cross shall continue. Especially with our respective book worms still lurking about.” “That’s why I suggested we split up the way that we did. They’re smart and they’re going to make this more fun. I can’t speak for Dusk, but Twilight’s got a knack for strategy. I’m sure they are no doubt planning our demise as we speak.” “So exhilarating! Oh, to your left!” They broke apart their back to back formation and fired at a couple of random women who were attempting to flank them from both sides. “They won’t stay down long. Let’s roll!” Singer hooped and hollered as he and Rarity continued to traverse through the maze. Up in one of the towers, Dusk and Twilight had to bail on their previous position when a sizable number of kids were moving in their direction. However, the high ground gave them an advantage over their charging foes. “This is a little too easy, I almost feel bad for doing this.” Dusk said. “All is fair in the heat of the battle, Dusk!” Twi said as she fired at the sensors of someone trying to get them in a neighboring tower. “Okay, they’re bailing. We have a chance to get out of this tower. We can’t let Singer and Rarity beat us.” “Affirmative.” He said as he followed her down the slide, keeping sharp and firing at anyone they saw. “Oh, shoot! I’m hit!” She said as her shoulder sensors went off and her lights flickered for a moment. “Go on ahead, I’ll catch up.” “Oh no you don’t, we’re in this together!” He said as he fired at yet another sneaking teenager. “Well, well, well…” They heard a voice from behind them. Twilight’s sensors reactivated whenever they were met by Singer and Rarity. The former being the one who was talking. “Drat! They found us!” Dusk said as they all pointed their laser blasters at each other. “It would appear that the truces have expired.” Rarity said. “So it would seem… Sorry Rarity.” Singer said as he shot her left shoulder sensor and dipped behind a wall. “Double crossed! Ugh!” Dusk and Twilight darted off in their own directions, taking cover behind the walls. Singer embraced his role as the villain in this scenario, actively stalking them. His voice echoed from everywhere as Dusk and Twilight hid. “This doesn’t have to end in an ugly way, just surrender now. At the end of the day, we’re all going to get our just desserts. I suggest ice cream but whatever y’all want after this is fine by me. But the victory will be mine!” “You’d like that wouldn’t you?” Twilight couldn’t hold back her laughter. “Your adorable giggling might give you away, sweetheart…” Twi could hear Singer drawing closer, but couldn’t tell which direction he was coming from. She looked to her left and to her right repeatedly. But wait… she looked up and there he was on a platform above her, waving at her before quickly reaching for his trigger. She jumped out before he could fire upon her, however this would prove to be a mistake as Rarity was back in the game and had her blaster aimed at Twilight’s back sensor, Twilight was now out in the open. “Good work Rarity!” Singer said. “I knew that we would-…” His torso sensor was hit suddenly. He melodramatically fell to his knees on the platform he was on and fell to his fake death. Rarity had turned on him. This gave Twi a chance at getting away. Rarity was about to take the shot on her when Dusk fired on her from behind. “Really Dusk?” “Sorry Rarity. But this battle will be won by a new victor on this day. Now that you seasoned veterans are out of the picture, it comes down to us “book worms”…” “How delightful!” Rarity applauded his theatrics, taking no offense whatsoever in the ‘betrayal’. Dusk inched closer to Twilight who’d been standing there waiting for him. “I’m sorry this has to end this way. You were a worthy ally, Twilight. But I’m afraid that our mutual agreement must end here.” Twilight’s eyes narrowed through her glasses, and Dusk’s through his. Singer and Rarity watched from their respective positions. “The quick and the dead…” she said, readying her blaster. Suddenly, they both were hit by the random teenagers that Singer and Rarity faced before. Singer and Rarity collectively growled in annoyance and jumped back in to cover them. “Looks like the only winners today are going to be decided between the four of us and those teenagers.” Singer said. “The double crossing ends now! Together!” As Dusk and Twilight’s sensors activated again, the four of them ran headlong into the approaching teenagers with their laser blasters blazing. The fun ended abruptly as they were reminded of the timer that was on the course. The lights came back on and the game was over. Once the smoke had settled , the four of them laughed at the silliness that they’d just engaged in and pulled each other in for a four way hug. Once they’d been relieved of their laser tag gear, and had left the building, the two couples were back to holding hands again. “So I guess the scores weren’t that great. We all got hit more times than we’d like to admit.” Singer said as they all looked at their scores. “We had a blast regardless.” Dusk said, smiling at Rarity. “No hard feelings?” Rarity planted a kiss on his lips. “Of course not. I would have done the same to you, my dear. All in good fun.” “Singer, your idea of going to get ice cream has me wanting some now. Do you know any good places?” asked Twilight. “I agree. I’m all worked up from being in that arena. I could go for some ice cream myself.” Dusk added. Singer whipped out his phone and searched for a place nearby. “There we go! ‘Hank’s Ice Cream’ is just down the street! Let’s go pay old Hank a visit.” Dusk and Rarity walked on ahead while Singer and Twilight staggered behind a bit. “Hey Twi?” He said as he put his arm around her. “Yeah?” She smiled. “I… I’m so happy to be here with you.” “And I’m happy to be here with you.” She replied with a smile. He stopped. “No… that’s not quite what I really mean to say. Um… look, I just want you to know that what I’m about to say is from the heart. If you don’t quite feel the same way yet, that’s okay. But I don’t want to hold it in anymore.” “Yes?” “Twilight. I… I love you.” He said finally. He looked at her as soon as he said it, unsure as to what to expect. At first, it caught her off guard but her surprised expression turned into a smile with her eyes appearing to glisten. “Took you long enough to finally say it.” She smirked. “I love you too. And I mean it, too.” She pulled him in for a kiss. They did so a few times for about fifteen seconds or so before they remembered that they were standing out in the open on a busy sidewalk. “Guess we’d better go catch up with Dusk and Rarity.” He said as he noticed how far ahead they’d gotten. “Yep. Totally.” She said as they both took off after them. Zephyr had an eventful day himself despite trying to lounge around on the beach. While he had been tanning and lying on his large pink beach towel, he noticed the girls that had been on the beach earlier were stopping their game of volleyball and appeared to be getting ready to do some relaxing themselves. This gave him an idea. He’d walked up to a few of the girls that had broken away from their peers and decided to put the charm on them. “Excuse me, ladies…” he said to the trio. “I was wondering if any of you needed someone to put lotion on your back. After a long day of playing volleyball, I’m sure you’re ready for relaxation. And I’m here to be of assistance. So who’s the lucky lady who wants to get acquainted with The Breeze Master?” The girls stared at each other at first. Then they all three started to laugh. One of them spoke up. She had on a white two-piece bathing suit, and had light blue skin and had a faded blonde color in her hair with some dark blue highlights. “Excuse me, Mr… Breeze, was it? Could you and your negative energy like buzz off? You’re really killing my vibe…” “Aw, come on ladies. Don’t be like that. It’s not like I’m asking for you to make me a sandwich or something. I’m just single and ready to mingle. Though if you wanted to make me a sandwich, I love me a good Tuna melt.” A second girl shared a smirk with her friends and she stood up. She had white skin and long wavy brown hair, and was wearing a white polka dotted two-piece bathing suit. “You want a sandwich, huh?” “Well, not in so many words but I could eat.” “I’ll give you a sandwich! A knuckle sandwich!” She said as she punched Zephyr in the eye, knocking him to the ground. “Now beat it!” The third member of their group said. She had pink skin and short darker pink hair, and wore a blue and white striped one piece bathing suit. She stayed lying down on her towel but her demeanor was even more abrasive than her friends’ was, and that’s what eventually scared him off. “And don’t come back!” Zephyr collected himself and scampered off before more harm could come to him. His ego was shot down a peg. He would immediately find himself stewing in anger on his pink towel, muttering random angry words to himself. Then he noticed an approaching herd of guys approaching the area where the volleyball girls had been camped out. “Oh, you guys are in for a total beat down…” Zephyr mumbled to himself. “Oh well at least I get to watch someone else get-… WHAT?!?” He became even more salty when he noticed that the girls let these guys put lotion on their backs and they also let them flirt with them. “Well life is just a big big ball of unfair…” Zephyr muttered to himself. “What do those muscle bound airheads got that I don’t?” As he watched it unfold, he noted the appearance of one guy in particular who the rest of them seemed to respect as they stepped out of his way. He had blonde hair with white streaks on the sides, tan skin, and was one of the few of their number wearing a shirt in addition to a seashell necklace, but it was evident that he was ripped like the others. His shirt was purple and emblazoned on it was their fraternity logo of a large Capital ‘M’ accompanied by a golden Pi symbol, and to add to his arrogant appearance, his swimming trunks were gold colored. “Attention, Mu Pi Fraternity Brothers… and guests.” The leader said as he winked at the girls, causing a couple of them off to the side to swoon. “This year was a grueling one. Many of us had to make sacrifices of our chill time to make it through this semester, but now that we have made it, I declare this Mu Pi gathering of Summer Time fun, underway! And as we have every year since the beginning of time, we will rule this beach with our iron fists!” The frat guys and volleyball girls in the area cheered as they began their celebratory toast with whatever beverages they held in their hands and with ceremonial lighting of tiki torches. “Ugh frat guys are the absolute worst.” He sneered as he looked on bitterly. “But I’ll give them this, they sure know how to party. Still though. Who’d walk around proudly wearing Moo Pie on their shirts?”