To recap the last episode, we followed the vacation of Celestia and Atlas, as well as Twilight, Artemis and all their friends. But there is one more vacation adventure left. And that is Luna and Apollo’s vacation in the twin cities of Surfside and Dockside. So, let’s go back in time and see what they were up to.
===•••===
July 17 1009 A.G
Luna and Apollo’s vacation started a day before Celestia and Atlas’ trip to Cloudsdale. But unlike Atlas and Celestia’s flight which would’ve only lasted an hour at most, Apollo and Luna‘s flight to Surfside-Dockside air station lasted six hours.
Thanks to Canterlot being in the center of the kingdom while the twin cities was located on the west coast of Equestria. So to make sure they got as much time in the sun as possible they left when the sun was beginning to rise.
Before the blimp landed at the air station, Apollo was able to get a look of the twin cities from his window and could not believe how beautiful the two cities were. He didn’t know what to expect when he agreed to join Luna on this trip, but he wasn’t expecting to see two massive population centers filling the view of his blimp window.
Dockside and Surfside combined looks bigger than New York City with tall modern skyscrapers all over the coastline and a river that flows between the two cities with dockside north of the river and Surfside in the south.
While they were settling in their hotel room Apollo decided to read the brochure that he bought from hotel lobby and learned that the only thing that separated the Twin Cities apart from one another is that Dockside is a business and financial center like San Franciscolt and Surfside is a gambling and vacation destination like las Pegasus.
After he finished reading the brochure, Apollo
had a feeling that the weekend was going to be very interesting indeed.
===•••===
8:30 PM
After spending the entire day, having the time of their lives in the tourism district, Luna in Apollo were now walking down the street that was right next to the beach. Doing nothing but enjoying each other’s company.
“So what do you want to do now?” Luna ask.
“OK, we destroyed a ton of egos by playing blackjack and pool. We had fun in the arcade, and we did a lot of sightseeing. I don’t know what I want to do next honestly.” Apollo responded.
“How about we go to the movies tonight?”
Luna got no response and she noticed that Apollo was looking at a huge PosterBoard with great interest.
“Apollo?”
“Hey Luna, you might wanna take a look at this.”
Luna decided to see what got the human’s attention and saw a poster that said the following.
===•••===
‘Do you and your friends want to be known as the masters of the beach? Well if you do. Sign up for the 32ND SURFSIDE BEACH TOURNAMENT!
First place winners, will receive a gold medal and bragging rights for entire year. And if you’re a visitor from another city or country when you come back to Surfside, you get a 50% discount at any hotel or restaurant in the city. The tournament will start tomorrow on July 19 1009 and it will last from 8 AM to 1:30PM. May the best team win!’
===•••===
“When I ask, what do you want to do? I meant tonight not tomorrow.”
“I know, but did you not just read what I just read? If we win that tournament, we get two gold medals and bragging rights for an entire year. Do you know how cool that is.”
“That does sound tempting, but I only booked this trip for a relaxing vacation, just for the two of us.”
“And I appreciate that but eventually we’re going to have another competition between the two of us eventually especially on the beach. So how about we team up instead and win two gold medals. And I know how you and Celestia love to have sibling rivalry every chance you get. So how about one up your older sister by showing off a gold medal in her face?”
“You’re going to do the same thing to your brothers aren’t you?”
“Of course, I am. You’re not the only one with sibling rivalry as you know. And if we win, we can use that discount to bring everyone else next time we decide to come here again.”
“Hmmm. OK, you convince me. We’ll sign up for the tournament.”
“I knew you would come around.”
“Now, what should we call ourselves?”
“How does the name “The Double Threat” sound?” Apollo suggested.
“I like it.”
“I’m glad that you agree.”
Before Apollo picked up the pencil to register for the competition, he noticed something a bit odd about all of the empty space on the sign in sheet.
Luna notices his confuse expression.
“What’s the matter?”
“Nothing, it’s just there’s only nine teams on this sheet. You would think since this is a beach town, there would be more people participating in this contest.”
“Isn’t that a good thing? If there’s barely any ponies in this competition, means this will be the easiest victory ever.”
“Yeah, you have a point. It doesn’t matter as long as we win am I right.”
After he finish writing his team's name down on the sign in sheet, Apollo and Luna resume their romantic stroll.
“Now since we’re done with that, are you going to answer my question from earlier?”
“I didn’t hear your question from earlier. What did you ask anyway?” Apollo asks.
“Do you want to watch a movie tonight?”
“Yeah, why not. So, are you going to use teleportation or are you going to pick me up and fly us there?”
“I’m going to fly us to the movie theater. I didn’t preen my flight feathers for nothing.”
Luna said as she flexed her wings.
“All right, you can pick me up now.”
===•••===
After flying through the city skyline for five minutes, Luna spotted a movie theater in Surfside’s leisure District and landed in front of the entrance, released Apollo from her magic, and entered the establishment.
Now they were choosing which movie to watch.
“So, which movie genre do you want to watch?” Apollo asks.
“An action or a thriller. I don’t care which one you choose.” Luna said as she looked at the list of available movies behind the counter.
(Apollo’s thought process)
‘Maya the adventure, nope. Bad Colts, Bad Colts. Already watch that. Mares in black? Maybe.
Apollo’s eyes widen when he noticed a movie poster with two earth ponies and one unicorn, running away from a T-Rex, with a familiar outline of a t-rex head in the background.
‘Is that? there’s no way!’
(End of Apollo’s thought process)
“Lulu, you’re not going to believe this.”
“What is it?”
“Look at the movie that’s going to be playing in theater 16.”
When she looked at what Apollo was pointing at, she couldn’t believe her eyes.
“Is that extinction park? I thought that movie wasn’t supposed to be released yet.” Luna said with shock.
“I know right. We have to watch it tonight.”
“Definitely!” Luna said with excitement.
“Excuse me sir, two tickets for extinction park please.”
===•••===
Hour and a half later
10:15 PM
After the movie was over Luna and Apollo teleported back in their hotel room with shock looks on their faces. They’re brains still trying to process what they just watched.
“That was” all of a sudden, the princess of the night jumped off her bed, like she was full of energy. “The best movie I have ever seen! No wonder it has a 90% rating.”
“Extinction Park is way more violent than its cousin back on earth. They didn’t even try to hide the death scenes.”
“That’s what makes it even better in my opinion. Do you know how many movies I have watch ever since I came back from my banishment that always censor everything?”
“Wait, there were movies 1000 years ago?”
Apollo ask in confusion.
“There were no movies before my banishment. Celestia introduced me to them to help me get used to modern times.”
“Well, I’m glad that we both enjoyed that movie, but I think it’s time for us to get some sleep. After all, we have a big day tomorrow.”
* yawn* “Yeah you’re right.”
After they both change into their pajamas, the two lovers snuggled up to each other and fell asleep. Dreaming of an easy victory at the beach tournament.
===•••===
July 19 1009
7:45 a.m.
After Luna and Apollo woke up and got everything, they needed for the day ahead. They decided to teleport to the beach, knowing that the streets would be crowded with ponies eager to watch the tournament.
When they arrived at their destination, they headed towards the beach entrance, ignoring all of the stares everyone else was giving them.
When they found the registration table, a young gray colored sea pony stallion was surprised to see the two-standing right in front of him. But he was able to maintain his professional exterior.
“Are you two here to participate in the tournament just here to watch the show?” Ask the sea pony.
“We are participating in the competition.” Luna responded.
“OK did you guys put your names down on the sign in sheet on the poster board last night?”
“Yeah, our team's name is the double threat.” Apollo answered.
“Hmmm. Oh, here it is. you’re the 10th team on the list. now the changing rooms are right by the bleachers. If you have any questions, you can ask me or the ponies at the lifeguard station right over there.” The sea pony pointed behind them.
“Thank you very much.” Apollo said.
“You’re welcome and good luck.”
===•••===
5 minutes later.
While Apollo was waiting on Luna to finish changing into her swimwear, Apollo was looking at a poster board with all the activities he would be facing throughout the entire day.
Unbeknownst to him, a familiar aqua blue sea pony walked up next to him and tapped him on the shoulder. Apollo look to his right to see who wanted his attention. The moment he laid eyes on her, he smiled.
“Mira? hey long time no see.” The human said, giving his friend a hug.
“And it’s good to see you too Apollo. I never expected to see you on the West Coast.”
“I can say the same thing to you. What are you doing here anyway? Decided to have a vacation just like me.”
“Nope, you wouldn’t believe why I am here.”
“You’re reporting on this competition?”
“Nope, I’m on the job. But I’m not reporting.”
Mira said.
“You’re competing in this tournament?”
“Nope.”
“OK I give up. Can you please tell me why you’re here?”
“I am the host for this competition.”
“You’re the host?”
“Yep, this is my third year hosting this competition. And before you ask how I got this job, the tournament is sponsored by the Canterlot times’ sister studio, the west coast gazette.”
“Huh, what a small world.” He said to himself.
“So that means you can answer this question that’s been bugging me.”
“I’m all ears.” Mira said.
“Last night when me and Luna-
“Princess Luna is here!?” her eyes widened.
“Yeah, she invited me to come with her on this trip.”
“Well, aren’t you a lucky boy.” Mira teased with a wink.
“Oh, shut up.” Apollo chuckled. “Now where was I? Oh yeah. When me and Luna was signing up for the competition and I thought it was a bit strange that only nine teams were on the roster. I thought they’ll be more than that since this is a beach town and all that. Is that normal?”
Mira sighed and pinched the bridge of her nose.
“The reason why barely any pony is signing up for this tournament is because of those two bastards over there.”
Apollo never thought he would see Mira with such a look of disdain on her face. Apollo looked at the ponies in question and saw two stallions. one of them is a brown sea pony with a green mane and tail. And the other one is a black unicorn with a silver mane and tail.
Both of them were surrounded by a group of mares and they were enjoying the attention.
“Those two? that’s the reason.”
“Yep. Those bastards are named seagrass and javelin also known as the “handsome duo.” Mira said her voice dripping with disgust.
“So how are they responsible for the lack of ponies competing?”
“For starters, they are the most self-absorbed jerks in town, they love to boast about how great they are, and they both love to intimidate other ponies from competing in the tournament. In fact, out of the 10 teams participating this year, only two of them are from the Twin Cities. The rest are tourists from out of town.”
“Damn, no matter what world you’re in, the beach always attracts the worst people.” Apollo said to himself.
“But Seagrass is the worst of the two since he loves to sleep with any mare that catches his eye.”
Apollo’s eyes widen.
“Don’t tell me he-“
“Hits on mares that are already dating some pony else. Yes, yes, he does.”
“Well, it looks like there’s a team that me and Luna have to eliminate.”
“I hope you will be able to win this tournament because if you do is reign of terror will be over. And I will be rooting for you.” Mira said.
“Thanks.”
“Apollo, who is this?”
Both the sea pony and the human look behind themselves to see Luna was right behind them.
She is wearing a white one-piece swimsuit with a dark blue star on her stomach area. Matching Apollo swim trunks, except he had two dark blue stars on his pockets.
“Lulu, this is Mira. The reporter that interviewed me and my brothers two weeks ago. Mira, this is Luna, but you’re a knew that.”
“Well, it’s nice to meet the reporter I heard so much about.” Luna said.
“And it’s nice to meet you too princess.”
“You don’t need to call me princess. I’m here on a vacation. You just call me Luna.”
While Luna and Mira were getting to know each other, they didn’t notice that Seagrass and Javelin were looking at them.
“Is that Princess Luna?” Javelin asked in disbelief.
“Yep, that is her. She looks even sexier in person.”
Seagrass said as his eyes examined every curve on the princess's body. “But why does that weird ape creature always follow her?”
“You don’t remember the newspaper said? Apparently, they’re dating each other now.” Javelin said.
Seagrass burst out laughing. “Oh Javelin, you really believe what those stupid newspaper says? There’s no way in Tartarus that one of the princesses would even look at that thing let alone fall in love with it.”
“Are you sure about that because magazines have pictures of them having lunch together, walking together, even exercising with each other. Look at them, they’re wearing matching swimwear.”
“All right, if they are dating, that means all I have to do is show the princess what a real stallion looks like.” Seagrass said as he puffed his chest out.
“OK, so what’s the plan?” Javelin asks.
“First, I will try to challenge him into a bet that no sane pony will ever refuse. If that doesn’t work, all we have to do is humiliate him. When Luna sees her colt friend being nothing but a pathetic loser, she will walk over to us and maybe we could convince her to come to our rooms later tonight.”
“That sounds like a good plan. So, when will we strike?”
“You will know soon enough.”
===•••===
8:00 AM
After 10 minutes of catching up with sea pony reporter, Apollo and Luna had to part ways with Mira since the competition was going to start and they have to be ready for the first challenge.
And their first challenge was building a sandcastle.
After it was announced, all the competing teams were given the directions to an empty part of the beach, just a few feet away from the crowded areas.
With a few buckets and small shovels, Apollo and Luna were now waiting for the challenge to begin.
“Have you ever built a Sandcastle before?”
Apollo asked.
“Yes, a few times last year. But they were only simple bucket size ones at best. I hope we don’t have to build a castle that’s too complicated.” Luna said, as she drew in the sand with a stick.
Then right on cue, they heard the intercom speakers turn on.
Intercom: “Good morning every pony! This is your host, Mira breeze. And welcome to the 32nd annual Surfside Beach tournament!”
The crowd cheered.
intercom: "The first challenge of the tournament is sandcastle building challenge. After the time is up our five judges will critique your creations. Each judge will give you one point. If you get two points or less, you are disqualified from the tournament. And if a team tamper with another team's castle, that team in question is immediately kicked out of the tournament. You all have one hour to complete your Sandcastles. May the best team win!”
A large screen turned on showing a timer with one hour on the clock.
“One hour huh, that’s more time than I thought we would get.” Apollo said calmly.
Luna on the other hand, was a bit nervous.
“Oh, Faust dammit. I somehow knew that the first activity would be difficult. I just learned how to make a sandcastle last year. How are we going to do this?”
“OK Luna calm down, not all hope is lost. At least the tournaments organizers gave us buckets of different sizes and shapes as well as little shovels.”
“So, you have a plan to help us move on to the next challenge?” Luna said, calming down a bit.
“Kind of.”
Luna looked at the human with a confuse expression. “What do you mean by that?”
“How am I supposed to explain this? Have you heard of the saying go big or go home?”
“I’m not familiar with that saying. Why do you ask?”
“Today you’re going to find out.”
===•••===
8:55 AM
Apollo and Luna couldn’t be prouder of themselves.
Both of them were looking at their giant Sandcastle the both of them have created with their own hands. It was also very detailed with three towers on top with two US flags (or Luna’s best depiction of it) on the two shorter towers, and one equestrian flag on the tallest one as well as a moat surrounding the sand structure. The moat was dry, but as a moat, nonetheless.
Somehow, they were able to finish it with only five minutes to spare.
So, they decided to watch the other teams build their Sandcastles. Some of them were doing pretty well, while others not so much.
And then there was Seagrass and Javelin, who were wondering how the couple was able to make a Sandcastle nicer than theirs.
But Apollo couldn’t help but laugh a bit by watching the two idiots trying to complete theirs before the five minutes was up.
===•••===
Five minutes later.
Intercom: “All right every pony time is up, the judges will now inspect your castles and remember, if you get two stars or less, that means you’re eliminated from the tournament.”
“Do you think we will pass the inspection?”
Luna asks.
“Definitely. I wouldn’t be surprised if we get at least four points. But I hope that we’re not the first ones to be looked at.”
“Same.”
Unfortunately, their wish was not granted. For some reason the judges decided to make a beeline towards their and when they arrived, they started to look at the castle like it was a fancy art piece.
“Hmmm, very interesting. This has to be one of the biggest Sandcastles I have ever seen.”
Said one of the judges.
“Very detailed indeed. And you two were able to finish this five minutes early?” Said another judge.
“Yeah, when Luna wants something done, she gets it done. No matter the cost.” Apollo said, as he pointed to the massive pile of sand that Luna dug up while making the moat. He was also pointing at a 4-foot-wide hole Luna also dug up.
“I shouldn’t get all the credit; you did design it yourself. And I thought Artemis was the artist of the family.”
“When one of your siblings is a nerd like Artemis, you learn a thing or two.”
Then one of the judges approached them.
“I just want to tell the both of you that the creation y’all built together is really impressive. I hope that the rest of the judges agrees, because if this is not worthy of getting first place, I don’t know what is.”
“Thanks for telling us that.” Luna responded.
“You’re welcome and good luck.” Said the unicorn judge as she walked with her colleagues.
“That went surprisingly well.” Apollo said.
“I know right, if we’re able to get first place in the first challenge of the tournament imagine how easy this will be for the both of us.”
“I hope you’re right, Lulu. I hope you’re all right.”
===•••===
10 minutes later.
9:10 AM
Intercom: “All right every pony the results are in.”
“Oh, crap this is it. The moment of truth.” Apollo said nervously.
Everyone on the beach looked at Mira with bated breath as she announced each team that passed the challenge. The tension in the air was palpable.
And then, when she got to the top three everyone in the audience expected the same results from last year.
“In third place is the awesome brigade with 4.5 points.”
“In second place is the handsome duo with 4.8 points.”
Everyone was shocked.
“How in the fuck did we only get second place!?” Javelin and Seagrass said in shock and confusion.
Even Mira was surprised by this.
“Hey guys, this is the right results? This is not a prank right?”
“We don’t pull pranks. That paper you’re reading is the right results.” One of the judges said.
“All right, I’m trusting you guys.”
“And the winner of the singing castle building challenge is…… The double threat with five points!”
The crowd went wild.
“Oh, my Faust, we won!” Luna screamed.
“Hell yeah!” Apollo cheered.
While Apollo and Luna were celebrating their first victory, seagrass and javelin looked at them confusion and anger.
“Out of all the Faust damn teams in this competition we had to be beaten by the one with the ape creature in it.” Javelin said. Then he destroyed the Sandcastle he built with Seagrass.
“Don’t worry my friend. Yeah, we might’ve lost this challenge but at least we have more challenges coming up, so I think we have a chance to humiliate that up once, and for all.”
“Are we going to start our plan in the next round?”
Javelin asks.
“Definitely, you really think I was going to approach our opponent during the Sandcastle round?”
“You did that last year.” Javelin deadpanned.
“OK I see your point.”
Then the crowd finally ceased their cheering. making it quite enough for Mira to speak into the microphone.
“And the two teams that I did not get three points, or more are now disqualified nice try guys.”
The teams in question quietly walked off the beach and sat down on the bleachers to watch the rest of the tournament.
“The next challenge will be announced in 10 minutes. Rest up every pony the rest of the competition will be one wild ride.”
===•••===
10 minutes later
9:20 AM
intercom: "Attention all contestants. It is time for the next activity to be announced. The next challenge is the collecting challenge. And since this is a brand-new activity for this year, I will explain the rules. In the first round, one of the team members will dive into the ocean and collect as many seashells as they can in a five-minute time frame and vice versa. The teams that collect the most seashells will move on to the next activity. “
“Apollo, can I go first?” Luna asks.
“Of course, you can. I don’t mind.”
Luna walked to the starting line, put her goggles on and waited for the challenge to begin.
“All right contestants. on your mark, get set, GO!”
Everyone on the starting line, ran across the beach and dive into the ocean.
Not even 20 seconds later, Apollo noticed seagrass walking towards him.
‘Why is he walking over here?’ Apollo thought.
“Hey human, that was pretty impressive what you and the princess did in the last challenge.” Seagrass said with the best friendly smile he could muster.
Apollo knew it was a fake smile.
“Thanks, but why are you over here?”
“OK human. I just want to do is congratulate one of my competitors. Is that illegal now? How about I introduce myself. My name is Seagrass champion and master of the beach for five years in a row.” he said, with pride and entitlement, dripping from every word.
‘Jesus, he has a huge ego.’ Apollo thought.
“My name is Apollo.”
This made Seagrass’ mind stop working for second.
‘Wait, it is Apollo? isn’t he the tough one of the three? I thought he would be cooler than this.’ Seagrass thought.
“Well Apollo, I want to know if you want to be in a bet with me?”
Apollo knew that whatever came out of his mouth was going to be very stupid but out of morbid curiosity, he didn’t stop him.
“I can’t agree on a bet without knowing what’s at stake.”
“I was getting to that. If you win this competition, you can choose any of my fan girls to hang out with, take on a date, whatever. If I win, I get to take Luna out on the town and maybe take her back my bedroom, if you know what I mean.”
Apollo looked back at him with shock written all over his face, and one of his eyes was twitching.
“Do we have a deal?”
“No, we do not have a deal. That’s one of the most messed up bets that I have ever heard. The hell is wrong with you?”
“It’s just a friendly game between two colts.”
“No, it not. You’re literally saying do you want to take my mare friend away from me and use her as your personal plaything. That Is fucked up. You’re fucked up.”
Seagrass scoffed.
“Honestly, I don’t know what that princess sees in you. She should be around some pony who is actually a pony and someone that has a reputation of being awesome.”
Apollo at this point really wanted to teach this guy a lesson then he saw everyone coming out of the water. And he saw that the timer was almost up.
“I highly recommend that you get away from me right now.”
“Why you’re scared?” Seagrass taunted.
“No, it’s just our teammates are coming back, and the five minutes is almost up. And if you continue spew all that bullshit that coming from the mouth, I’m going to have no choice but to do something that I’m going to regret later.” Apollo said in a steel cold voice.
The brown sea pony was wise enough to go back to his spot on the beach, just in time for Luna to arrive.
She released 11 seashells from her magic and spoke.
“Apollo, you’re not going to believe how beautiful the water is down there. There’s even a nearby coal reef.”
“Really? It must be my lucky day since my turn is coming up.”
Intercom: “Contestants that didn’t go in the water yet. Please make your way towards the starting line.”
“Good luck.” Luna said after she kissed him on the forehead.
“Thanks babe.”
Apollo walked towards the shoreline, put on his goggles and waited for the round to start.
intercom: “All right, every pony on your mark, get set, Go!”
Just like Luna in the round before Apollo ran into the water and disappeared under the surface.
While Apollo swim through the water He couldn’t help but be surprised how beautiful the wildlife was below him. And he was only in 8 feet deep water.
But he wasn’t here to admire the sea life, he was here to collect seashells.
So, for the next four minutes, Apollo collected the seashells of the ocean floor.
After his arms and pockets were filled with shells, he started swimming back to shore, when all of a sudden, a current swept away 20 feet to the right.
When he got his bearings and make sure that all of the shells he collected were still in his left arm, Apollo started to fight against the current, and saw that Seagrass was the one that was making it.
The thing about sea ponies, they have the ability to control water. And that’s a problem for Apollo, because right now seagrass was using his mermaid tail to create strong ocean currents and waves.
After 8 seconds, Seagrass ceased his assault and swam away.
“That’s what you get, freak. Ha ha ha ha.” Seagrass said to himself.
After the brown sea pony disappeared from view, Apollo swam to the surface to get a breath of fresh air and see how much time he had left.
He only had 30 seconds left.
Apollo swam as fast as he could to the shoreline. His lungs burn from exhaustion, but he didn’t care. The only thing pushing him forward was sheer determination.
When he finally made it to shallow waters, he ran towards the shoreline like he was storming the beaches of normandy.
And he crossed the finish line with only five seconds to spare.
He dropped everything he had in his arms and sat down onto the sand, trying to catch his breath.
Then he noticed everyone was staring at him with wide eyes.
“What?”
The audience irrupt in applause.
“That was incredible!” Luna tackled him into a hug. “I never seen any pony run across a beach that fast before. I didn’t even know that was possible.”
“Luna, you’re hugging me too tight.”
“Oh, sorry.”
All of a sudden, Mira turned on her microphone and she sounded really angry.
Intercom: “Before we tally up the all the seashells our contestants have collected. One of them decided it would be a good idea to cheat.”
Seagrass went white as a ghost.
Intercom: “Seagrass, everyone in the audience, and in the tournament committee right behind me saw what you did. Not only were you trying to cheat, but the way you did it was really dangerous. You’re lucky Apollo was able to get out of that situation without getting hurt.”
“But I did nothing wrong!”
Intercom: "You did something wrong Seagrass is the same thing every damn year. You know what, I’m not going to dish out your punishment this year. I’m going to leave it up to the victim. Apollo what should his team be kicked out of the tournament?”
“Nah, let him and his team play.”
Everyone looked at him with confused and shocked looks on their faces.
“You’re just going to let him off the hook? He could’ve ended up in the hospital for Faust's sake.” An appalled Luna said.
“I know, but the only way this punk will learn his lesson if someone takes away his championship title once and for all.”
Intercom: "I like how you think Apollo. All right the handsome duo will remain in the tournament.” Mira said over the microphone.
Seagrass and javelin breve a collective sigh of relief.
“But you two will have five points deducted from your score.”
Javelin looked at his friend with anger in his eyes. Since it was Seagrass’ idea to cheat in the first place.
intercom:“Now, since we got that over with, we’re now going to tally up all the points each team has received.”
===•••===
Five minutes later
9:35 AM
intercom:“In third place is the handsome duo with nine points, adding up to 13.8 points.
intercom:“In second place is the awesome brigade with 11 points, adding up to 15.5 points.”
Fleetfoot and Cloudchaserh ug each other in celebration.
intercom: “And in the first place is the Double threat with 18 points. Adding up to a total of 25 points.”
“Hell yeah, we’re going to the next round!” Apollo cheered.
Intercom: “Congratulations to the six team that are moving onto the next challenge. To the two other teams that are not moving on, all I can say, is you did your best that’s all that matters.”
After the two losing teams left the beach, Mira continued.
“The next challenge will happen in 30 minutes. See you all then.”
As the remaining contestants walked off the beach, Apollo looked at Luna and ask “ do you want to get a bite to eat?”
“Yes, please. Maybe we could try that restaurant down the street.”
“ That sounds good.”
===•••===
10:07 AM
When Luna and Apollo came back to the beach, after 30 minutes were up, they were escorted to the area where the audience was sitting. In front of the two teammates was a long rope. On the other side of the rope is two earth pony colts. Both of them look only 17 years old.
intercom: “Welcome back every pony. It’s time for the next challenge to begin!”
Mira waited for the crowd to stop cheering before continuing on with her speech.
“I hope all of you had a nice, relaxing 30 minutes all to yourselves because the next game is going to be a real nail-biter. Because this round will eliminate three teams from the tournament.”
Everyone in the audience gasp.
“That’s right. In this round half of the remaining teams will be eliminated in a game of tug-of-war. Contestants get in position.”
Listening to the host’s instructions, Apollo was about to grab the end of the rope. Then, Luna stopped him.
“Maybe I should be in the back.” Luna suggested.
“……Why?” Apollo ask in confusion.
“Because we’re facing off against two earth ponies.”
“So what? They’re not part dragons like Kirins. They don’t have magic like unicorns. Last, but not least they’re not pegasi. These earth ponies are going to be so easy to beat.”
“You do not understand Apollo. Out of the six pony tribes earth ponies are the strongest of them all and that’s why I want to be in the back because I know you’re gonna underestimate these two.”
“OK fine you can be in the back since you know more about your subjects than I do.”
“Thank you.”
After they got into their positions, Mira turned on her microphone again.
“OK every pony on the count of three you guys pull as hard as you can. One. Two. Three!”
Apollo then had a shock have a lifetime when the two earth pony colts pulled with all their might, and dragged both him and Luna a few centimeters forward. Apollo swore that he now had rope burn on his hands.
“Wow, what the hell!?”
“I told you this would happen.” Luna said through gridded teeth.
“I never thought these kids can be so strong.”
“Don’t Pull. Stay where you are. If we tire them out, we can take advantage of them.”
“Ok. That sounds like a plan.”
===•••===
Eight minutes later.
10:15 AM
It’s been eight minutes since the tug-of-war challenge has begun. Apollo, Luna and the two earth ponies were the only two teams left that were still trying to defeat one another.
Despite all the best efforts of the two earth ponies, their adversaries didn’t move a single centimeter.
Every pony in the vicinity wondered if the rope would snap before either of them would give up.
Then all of a sudden, the earth ponies stop pulling.
This didn’t go unnoticed.
“This is it, on the count of three.” Said Luna.
Luna: “One”
Apollo: “Two”
Luna: “THREE!”
After the countdown, they pulled on the rope so hard that the opposing team fell down into the ground and dragged in the sand. The opposing team also got a bad case of rope burn.
Intercom: “It looks like we finally have a winner. Congratulations double threat, you’re moving onto the next challenge. The countryside crew on the other hand you did your best. The medical tent is on the left.”
“Ah horse apples.” One of the Earth pony colts said as they walked away.
“Now we are finally down to three teams left.
Congratulations double threat, handsome duo, and the awesome brigade for coming this far in the tournament. Now the next challenge will be physically demanding, but it will be spicy if you know what I mean. The next challenge will begin in 10 minutes.”
“So, what did we learn today?”
“Never underestimate your opponents.”
“And?”
“Just because earth ponies don’t have magic like the rest of the tribes, doesn’t mean they’re not to be messed with.”
“And?”
“Don’t judge a book by its cover?” Apollo shrugged his shoulders.
“Good boy.”
===•••===
10:25 AM
Mira: “Hello every pony welcome back it’s time for the next challenge to begin. Now everyone in the audience might be wondering why our three remaining teams are now sitting front of their own personal tables like they’re in a game show. The reason, next challenge is something call spicy trivia.”
‘Well, that explains why there are 10 hot sauce bottles on the table.’ Apollo thought.
Mira: “The rules are simple. Before the start of each round all of our contestants would have to put a bit of hot sauce on the hay burger tacos. Starting from the least to the spiciest sauces. Then we ask all of you three questions. After each round is over, the contestants would have to put on spicier sauces on their tacos. The goal of the game is to not drink the milk. If you do drink the milk here out of the challenge, but not from the tournament. The teams with the most points will move on to the next challenge. And don’t worry we got buckets right next to you if you decide to vomit.”
Luna looked under the table out of curiosity, and saw the two buckets in question.
‘Why do I have a bad feeling about this?’ She thought.
Mira: “Before we can start the game, it’s time for our contestants to eat their tacos.”
Getting the all clear to try one of the tacos in front of him Apollo put a little bit of the mild sauce on it and took a bite.
Even though the bottle was labeled “mild”, it was not mild at all.
Mira: “Who is the youngest popstar to reach worldwide fame?”
“Oh, I know this one.” Apollo said to himself.
He then press the red button in front of him.
Apollo: “Songbird serenade.”
Mira: “That’s correct! One point for team double threat.”
Apollo: “Yes, I knew it.”
Mira: “Next question. Which waterslide in Equestria is considered the most terrifying to go on?”
“Do you know the answer?” Luna ask
“Nope haven’t been to any water parks recently.”
Cloudchaser: “The red dragon in Cloudsdale.”
Mira: “That is correct.”
“The red dragon. I think I heard of that name before. Do you think that Celestia already went on it since she is in Cloudsdale?” Apollo asked.
“She either already went on it, or she is planning on riding it.”
“I know for a fact that Atlas wouldn’t go near that thing.” Apollo chuckled.
Mira:“What species flower can survive winter?”
Javelin: “A tulip, I guess.”
Mira: “That is incorrect.”
Luna: “Snow lily.”
Mira: “That is correct.”
===•••===
Eight hot sauces later.
10:50 AM
It’s been over 25 minutes since the hot sauce trivia game has begun and since then it’s been nothing but hell for everyone that’s been participating.
The first one to give up was seagrass, and he only got to the third bottle. The next one to fall was Flitter. She couldn’t take the heat no more after the fifth bottle of hot sauce made contact with her tongue.
And the last two members of both teams gave up in the seventh round when they vomited so badly that they decided to give up on the spot.
This caused the game to be declared a draw since two teams are required to move on.
But they allowed Apollo and Luna to continue playing for extra points. Even though they couldn’t feel their lips anymore.
And now they’re about to move on to the ninth around, but everyone can tell that both of them were at their wits end.
Both Apollo and Luna had bloodshot eyes that were constantly filling up with tears, flush faces, and they were both breathing pretty heavily. They almost looked identical to the crying Michael Jordan meme.
“Are you guys OK?” a concern Mira ask.
“*Cough* *Cough* *Wheeze* don’t worry about us, we’re fine.” Apollo said, in a very raspy voice.
He look to his right to see Luna have her head down.
“Right Lulu…. Luna, you’re good?”
She gave a thumbs up.
“OK, you too. You only have three questions in this round to move on to the 10th and final one. Are you sure you want to continue? you have enough points from this game alone to skip the next tiebreaker challenge.”
“We know what we signed up for.” Luna said
“All right, if you say so. This question is a riddle so bear with me. This country is in the eastern hemisphere of planet Equis. It was so powerful during its heyday, that its nickname was “Equestria of the east”. It collapsed into eight smaller countries in the year, 991. What is this country’s name?”
“Can I get a hint?” Apollo ask.
“Yes, you can. The most powerful successor state is the Delta kingdom.”
“Is it the River Federation?”
“That is correct. Now onto the next question. How old is the city of Canterlot?”
“If I remember correctly 2,800 years old.” Luna said.
“That is correct. The next question is a true or false. Celestia favorite dessert is cake, true or false.”
“Really, that’s the last question?” Luna ask
“Yeah, it was there just in case if we need to make one of our teams to lose some points if they get it wrong but then again, we didn’t expect both of your opponents to give up so soon cause this game to end up as a draw. So, what’s your answer true or false?”
“It’s true, she’s my sister after all.”
“Correct! congratulations you too, you’re moving on to the 10th and last round of the game but unfortunately you have to taste one of the spiciest sauces we have had our disposal.”
Before Apollo could even reach out to grab the bottle, seagrass decided to taunt the human.
“Give up you son of a bitch! You’re not stallion enough to handle it.”
Everyone turned to look at the still recovering sea pony.
“What?”
“Oh, I’m not stallion enough to take the heat, says the pony who gave up in the third round!”
“Damn!” Cloudchaser and Flitter said.
“You know what? I am going to show you that I am more stallion than you, by doing this!”
He poured some of the sauce directly into his mouth.
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Mira said.
“Hmm. This taste pretty good. What’s in i- OH MY GOD IT BURNS!”
After Apollo’s shocking outburst, Luna started to feel the heat as well.
“FAUST DAMMIT! WHY IS IT BURNING SO BADLY!”
‘Wow, they didn’t even reach for the milk!’ Mira thought.
“Since this is the last round, I am going to ask you two question if you get it right, you win the game and you will be the first team to ever complete this game. The first question is, which town in Equestria has the nickname the “spa capital of the world?”
Apollo:”*Wheeze* blossom valley.”
“Correct! and the final question of the day is. Name five cities that are located in north east Equestria.”
Thanks to the burning sensation that she was feeling all over her face at this point, it was very hard for Luna to think clearly.
“Oh, stars above, there’s…. Stalliongrad, Saint Peterhoof, Petrograd, and last, but not least Trottingham.”
“That is… correct! congratulations double threat can now be the first contestant of the final challenge of the tournament. And you have to option to skip the tie breaker challenge. It will be announced in one hour.
Luna and Apollo didn’t acknowledge the sea pony since they were drinking all of the milk they can find.
===•••===
11:50 AM
One hour later.
After everyone recovered from all of the hot sauce, they have consumed over an hour ago, the tournament committee announced that the tiebreaker challenge was going to be a surfing competition. Luna thanked the stars that she and Apollo stayed in the spicy trivia game as long as they did, or else they would’ve had to forfeit the entire competition since both of them don’t know how to surf at all. Unlike her sister.
Now Luna is walking back towards the beach with two lemonades floating in her magic, while humming a tune to herself.
Her good mood disappeared when the last pony she wanted to see decided to block her path.
“Hey princess, are you ready to cheer me on?”
Seagrass said while flexing his muscles.
“No.”
Luna tried to go around him, but he stepped in her path again.
“What do you mean no?”
“What I mean is that me and Apollo are not showing on a pain in the flank like you, instead we are cheering on Cloudchaser.”
“So you’re not bothered at all that your stallion is too scared to compete against me in this surfing challenge?”
“I don’t mind at all, why do you ask? Do you think he’s less of a stallion for not wanting to surf against you?”
“Yeah, I think it’s pathetic. And I also am confused why you want to date someone like him and not go out with someone like me.”
“Because unlike you, Apollo actually has a good heart, and I don’t date stallions that likes being an ass to everyone else.” Luna said, while getting more irritated by the second.
Luna tried for the third time to get away from Seagrass but once again he blocked her path.
It was at this moment when her invisible Lunar guard was right behind Seagrass just in case if she had to intervene.
“Oh come on princess do you know you don’t have to talk to me like that. Tell you what when I win this tournament for the 6th time in a row you and I could go out on the town get some drinks to get to know each oth-“
His sentence was cut short when Luna grabbed his collar of his wetsuit and slammed both of their foreheads together.
“I’m going to tell you this once. So you better listen. I don’t care how awesome you are or how many tournaments you won. If you harass me or Apollo again, I won’t hesitate to break every bone in your arms and legs. I done it before back in the day and I won’t be afraid to do it again. Do you understand me?”
“Y..Yes”
“Good, now get out of my way.”
Luna pushed the brown sea pony into the sand with the same hand She was using to grab his collar and walked away.
‘ I’ll give her time to think it over. Yeah, she’ll learn eventually.’ Seagrass thought.
“Princess, was that necessary? you know I could have apprehended him you know.”
Luna looked to her right to see Lily walking right next to her with her shadow ability disabled wearing casual summer attire.
“I know Lily if I needed your help I would’ve let you know. Thanks for the concern, but I can handle it myself. Besides, he need to be taught a lesson.”
“All right, princess, if you say so. But please don’t be so reckless next time.” Lily begged.
“Don’t worry, I won’t do it again, I promise.”
===•••===
Five minutes later.
Intercom: “Filly’s and Gentle Colts. Welcome back to the 32nd annual Surfside Beach tournament.
Now the next tournament challenge is about to begin. The challenge in question will be a surfing contest between Cloudchaser and Seagrass. And the double threat won’t be participating in this challenge because they decided to skip this challenge since they were able to complete the spicy trivia game just an hour ago. But enough talking it’s time for the surf off to begin.”
The moment the starting horn started to blared, Cloudchaser and Seagrass swam towards the waves just off the coastline.
And the waves were big.
“Well, that answers my question where Surfside gets its name from.” Apollo said to himself.
For the next 20 minutes, Apollo, Luna, and Flitter
watched as Cloudchaser conquer the waves like she was born for this moment.
It turns out that Cloudchaser loves to surf as much as she loves being a wonderBolt.
But then, when everyone thought she would beat Seagrass at his own game, she got overwhelmed by one of the waves, and got wiped out.
Luna: “Oh, no”
Apollo: “That gotta hurt.”
Flitter: “ I hope she’s ok.”
To everyone’s relief, Cloudchaser was able to swim back to shore.
“*Sigh* sorry Flitter, looks like we’re ended up in third place.” Cloudchaser said, sounding disappointed in her self.
“It’s all right, you did your best you’re safe that’s all that matters.” Flitter reassured.
“She’s right, you know. I mean look on the bright side, you’re in third place and getting a bronze medal. That better than nothing.” Apollo sad
“She still lost though!” Seagrass yelled from the other side of the beach.
“Oh, just shut up we get it you won. You don’t need to rub it in our faces!” Flitter yelled back.
“You guys are right, thanks for trying to cheer me up. And Apollo, you better win this tournament because we will be cheering you on.”
“Don’t worry, I won’t let you two down. After the tournament is over, do you want to have fun all over town with me and Luna?”
“Sure, if Luna ok with it.” Cloudchaser said.
“That’s fine with me.”
“All right, see you guys later.” Flitter said as she walked away with her sister.
“And remember, you better win.” Cloudchaser said.
“Don’t worry, we will.” Apollo said.
===•••===
Meanwhile, with Seagrass and javelin.
“Dude, what’s going on with you today?” Javelin said as he pinches the bridge of his nose.
“Nothing.” Seagrass said, as he put his surfboard away in his locker.
“Are you sure because you’ve been acting more of an ass to everyone today than in previous years. Heck you nearly got some pony killed. Not only that, your cheating cost us first place.”
“Hey, don’t worry we’re still in the tournament. All that matters now is to defeat the princess and then human and boom. We got two brand new gold medals for the both of us.” Seagrass said.
“That’s not the point you’re being so cocky this year. Like ever since Apollo stepped foot onto the beach, you feel threatened by him, do you feel threatened by him?”
Seagrass scoff.
“Javelin, of course I don’t feel threatened by him. He’s just another obstacle in our victory. Don’t worry we’ll win this easy peezy.”
“*Sigh* I hope you’re right.”
===•••===
12:20 p.m.
Apollo and Luna were now standing in a beach volleyball court, staring at their opponents with determination in their eyes. To make javelin and Seagrass, even more pissed off, the crowd was chanting “go go double threat”.
To make things even worse for both of them when they arrived in the area instead of being cheated on by half the crowd, everyone was booing at them. Making them realize that no one wanted them to win.
intercom: “Hello every pony! it’s time for the event that we all been waiting for! It’s time for the last challenge of the tournament to begin. The game is three rounds of beach volleyball. On the left is the double threat, on the right is the handsome duo. Whoever wins more than two rounds is declared the winner of the tournament, and the master of the beach. let’s go double threat.”
“Oh, come on.” Javelin and Seagrass yelled in frustration.
“Ha ha ha, what’s wrong Seagrass you’re mad that everyone is against you now?” Apollo taunted.
“Oh, shut up. I will wipe that shit eating grin off your face when I beat you. Oh, show all of you turn on the rightful master of this beach. You hear me I’m the master!”
“We’ll see about that.” Luna said
“Shut up.”
The volleyball coach then tossed the volleyball towards Apollo and blew his whistle.
Apollo toss the ball into the air and hit it over the net. Javelin hit back and would’ve hit the ground if Luna had not landed in the sand and deflected it.
For the next 15 minutes, both teams hit the volleyball back-and-forth nearly hitting each other and innocent bystanders alike.
The audience looked at the game with bated breath, wondering who will win the first round.
Eventually, they got their answer.
Intercom: “And the winner of the first round is the double threat with 19 points over the handsome duo’s 15 points.”
Seagrass was fuming at this point.
“Wow boys it looks like we’ll be the one winning. Good luck in the second round though.”
“Oh, shut up, that was only beginners' luck!” Seagrass yelled with anger.
“Seagrass calm down I’m as frustrated as you are but if you lose your head, we are not going to win this.” Javelin said.
The volleyball coach retrieves the ball, tossed it to javelin, and blew his whistle.
Then the second round, began as any other volleyball game, but then the moment seagrass got the volleyball. He threw it with all his might right at Apollo.
Apollo was able to deflect the ball and it landed right into Luna’s hands.
Things went downhill from there.
(15minutes later)
Intercom: “After a very intense round, the winner is the handsome duo with 11 points over the double threat with 10 points.”
The crowd started to boo.
Both sides didn’t react to the score, since they were too busy looking at each other with disdain for the other side.
Intercom: “This last round is going to be a nailbiter. If the handsome duo wins this will be their six tournament they won in a row. If the double threat win, this will be the first time in five years that another team has won the tournament.”
Luna looked at Apollo. They nodded at each other. Then she tosses the ball onto the air and hit it over the net.
This round would be the most intense volleyball game anyone has ever seen. Ponies of all ages were sitting at the edge of their seats. News studios who were able to get new TV cameras were filming the event closely allowing for a certain pink Alicorn to watch the event.
Things came to ahead when Apollo toss the ball into the air, and it collided with Seagrass’ face.
Causing it to bounce back towards the other side. when Luna intercepted it, she hit it hard, and javelin was unable to get the ball before it landed in the sand.
The referee blew his whistle, letting everyone know that the round was over.
(One minute later)
Intercom: “All right Every pony, the results are in. The handsome duo earned 13 points and the double threat earned….18 points! The double threat is the winner of the 32nd annual Surfside Beach tournament!”
it took a few seconds for the audience to process the information Mira just said. When they did everyone irrupt it into a celebratory cheer.
Celebrating that the handsome duo’s reign of terror was now over.
Unexpectedly, they started to storm the volleyball area and picked up both Apollo and Luna and started to carry them like they won the Super Bowl.
While they were celebrating their victory, Javelin and Seagrass had a blank stare in their eyes. The shock of the news was so great that seagrass didn’t feel the pain from his bleeding nose anymore.
All he felt was nothing. Five years of him working hard with his friend to defeating every opponent, and their Sixth title was taken away in just a matter of 15 minutes.
“No, no, no, no, NO NOOOOOO!”
===•••===
15 minutes later
1:19 PM
After receiving their metals and the paparazzi taking a ton of photos and interviews, Luna and Apollo. We’re now having a nice chat with Cloudchaser and Flitter.
“You guys should’ve seen yourselves. I never thought I would be so invested in a volleyball game of all things. You should teach me how to play like that Apollo.”
“Maybe my friend maybe. But what are you and your sister planning to do for the rest of the day?”
“Well to be honest, we don’t know. Me and Flitter were just planning on exploring dockside for a few hours. Thanks to a movie premiere that’s happening at seven.”
“A movie premiere?” Luna said in confusion.
“Yeah, the reason why we are in the Twin Cities is because Adam Potter is premiering tonight in Dockside.” Flitter responded.
Luna and Apollo were staring at the twins with shock.
“Wait, you’re talking about Adam Potter and the enchanted Stone. A movie that’s not supposed to come out until next week?” Apollo asks.
“Yeah, the moment when I heard about this ‘secret’ premier, I decided to come to Dockside and bring cloudchaser with me.”
“Wait is it possible for us to come along with you guys?”
“Yeah, I think I can convince the security at the premiere to allow you in. But then again, who is going to deny the princess of the night and one of the famous humans.”
“I never thought this day would get more interesting.” Luna said.
“But before we can explore the city together, I need to get my stuff from the lockers. Said Cloudchaser.
“Same over here, maybe a quick shower too. I still have sand in my mane.”
Before Apollo could join the three mares, he noticed seagrass sitting on a bench looking at his silver medal with disappointment.
“Hey Apollo, are you coming?” Flitter asks.
“Yeah, I’m coming just give me a sec. I have some stuff to deal with first.”
“All right. We’ll meet you at the lockers.”
Apollo walked over to the moping Seapony, when seagrass saw him approaching his facial expression harden into an irritated look.
*Sigh* “What do you want?”
“Nothing I just want to come over here and- “
“And what? Show off your new gold medal. Tell me that I’m a pathetic excuse of a stallion because I lost. Or do you just want to give me pity because if you do, I don’t want it.” Seagrass snapped at the human.
‘Damn, I didn’t expect him to take the loss this bad.’ Apollo thought.
“No, I’m not here to do any of that. I just want to say good game that’s all.”
“Ha ha ha that’s a good joke because that wasn’t a good game at all me and javelin lost and ended up in second place. Do you know how pathetic that is? why in Faust name didn’t you or that princess give up?”
“You know why we didn’t give up? Because we were determined to get into first place and teach you and Javelin a lesson. Answer this question for me. Why in the hell do you enjoy being a bully to everyone else?”
“Because winning that tournament gave me, and my friends access to parties, popularity, and the hottest chicks you can find. Before this, me and Javelin were just average 13-year-old overlooked by every pony else. Then we won the tournament, and we became the talk of the town in an instant. Maybe we got carried away after the second year, but so many wonderful things happen because of that. I just never wanted it to end.”
“Wait a second. You’re only 18?”
“Yeah.”
‘That explains a lot.’ Apollo thought.
It was at that moment when Apollo didn’t see a bully. Instead, he saw a person who regretted his actions.
“OK let me give you some advice. I know that’s going to awesome parties, being popular and having girls attracted to you is fine and all that. But all of those things isn’t everything. Believe me, I know. There’s more to life than being the master of the beach. You can still be popular you know.”
“But how is that possible when every pony hates me.” Seagrass said as he put his face into his hands.
“If you try to prove to the city that you changed, they will come back around and like you again. As long you are genuine in your apologies.”
“Do you really think the city will forgive me?”
“Of course. As long as you treat other ponies with kindness, they will treat you the same and eventually they’ll forgive you. Heck one of your fan girls is sitting new by, maybe you can start with her.”
Eventually, Seagrass took his hands off his face and gave Apollo a real genuine smile.
“Thanks, I really needed that. Sorry for trying to destroy your relationship with the princess.”
“It’s all right man. sorry for giving you a bloody nose with the volleyball.”
“Na, I deserved it.” Seagrass chuckled.
“Anyway, where’s javelin?”
“He went to a local bar to get both of us some beers.”
“All right, I have to go, but remember what we talked about I’m rooting for you and javelin. See you around.”
“Yeah, see ya.”
As seagrass watch the human walk away, he started to think about all of the stuff he has done to other ponies for the past three years. And how to make things right.
Apollo didn’t know it at the time, but his words would change a pony’s life forever.
===•••===
For the rest of the trip, Apollo and Luna hung out with Cloudchaser and Flitter. They met with celebrities at the Adam Potter premiere. They partied all over the place and they even had fun competing against each other in the city's multiple arcades.
After Apollo said goodbye to Mira, the four friends flew back on the same flight all the way back to Canterlot. Since the capital city was on their way back to Cloudsdale.
Sadly, they had to part ways. But they promise to keep in touch.
===•••===
July 20 1009 A.G
3:45 PM
Dining hall.
“So how was the west coast?” Celestia ask.
“It was wonderful Tia, I’m really glad that I decided to book the trip.”
“Auntie Luna, I really want to congratulate you on winning the tournament. I never thought I would see you holding a gold medal like you’re a professional athlete.” Cadence said.
“Well, it was mostly Apollo’s idea to sign up, but in the end it was worth it. But enough about my trip. What happened while I was gone?”
“Well, I had to deal with the massive protests that blueblood caused, but it was easy to deal with. The good news is that the governor of new Mareland told me that their economy started to recover.”
“Well, that’s good to hear. How about you Celestia?”
“Me and Atlas had a great time in Cloudsdale. On the second day, we encountered twilight, Artemis, and their friends in the Wonderbolt stadium. Let’s just say they made on vacation 10 times better.”
Luna was about to respond, but then felt something land on top of her head.
She picked up the mystery object with her magic and discovered that it was her gray sugar glider with his arms and legs spread out wanting nothing but a hug.
“Aww, hey crater did you missed mommy?”
She placed the small animal on her left hand, and he hugged her index finger.
“I miss you too.”
===•••===
Apollo’s bedroom
“I still can’t believe that not only did you watch the movie before anyone else did, but you met the actors and actresses too.” Artemis said.
“I know right I was thinking the same thing. It was a great experience overall.” Apollo said.
“Unless not forget that you met two famous wonder bolts while they were on vacation. If you’re not the definition of good luck, I don’t know what it is.” Atlas said.
“Yeah, yeah, I’m a lucky bastard, but you guys had a ton of fun in Cloudsdale. So, I guess that makes us even. But I wish that it didn’t end so quickly though.” Apollo said.
“Same over here. Atlas responded.
“So, now what?” Artemis asks.
“Do you guys want to play some Mario kart?” Apollo suggested.
“Sure, why not.” Atlas and Artemis said in unison.