//------------------------------// // Chapter 18: The Show Stoppers (S1:E18) // Story: My Little Pony: Nine Elements Book 1 // by BlueBioWolf //------------------------------// My Little Pony: Nine Elements Written by Brandon Nell and Blake Hawkins Additional suggestions by Rachel Ravens Chapter 18: The Show Stoppers It was five days after Fluttershy foalsat Spike and the crusaders. On that particular day, Applejack was leading them through some trees on Sweet Apple Acres. “Applejack,” Apple Bloom called out impatiently. “Where’re we even goin’? Feels like we’ve been trottin’ through these parts fer hours.” “It’s only been like five minutes,” Spike said. “Oh,” Apple Bloom said. “But, we still don’t know where we’re goin’.” “I’ve never been here before,” Sweetie Belle said. “Me neither,” Scootaloo added. “I thought we saw every part of Sweet Apple Acres.” “Not ev’ry part,” Apple Bloom said. “There’s parts even ah ain’t seen yet.” Apple Bloom moved a large leaf out of the way, but, it accidentally whacked Scootaloo in the face. “Ow!” “Oops,” Apple Bloom said. “Sorry, Scootaloo.” “Are we even there yet?” the pegasus filly asked. She hated asking the obvious question, but, she was fast losing patience. “Are we even where yet?” Sweetie Belle asked. "Ah, here we are," Applejack said at last and stopped at what appeared to be some sort of wooden building. But, it had clearly seen better days. The paint was dull and chipped in many places and most of the wood was rotten and decayed. “What’re we even lookin’ at?” Apple Bloom asked, not impressed. “Don’t ask me,” said Scootaloo. “I have no idea.” “What is it anyway?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Looks like no one’s been here for years.” "Cutie Mark Crusaders, welcome ta yer new clubhouse," Applejack said proudly. She expected to be showered with praise, but, all she got was a long silence and a few angry glares. "Well, don't thank me all at once," she continued. "Y’all fillies’ll never believe this, but, this used tah be mah clubhouse when ah was yer age. Sure, it hasn't been used in a while, but, it's empty n’ on a secluded, private part of the farm. N’ it's all yers. It just needs a little, uh..." Applejack paused, trying to think of a good word to describe the neglected building "TLC," she said at last. “‘TLC’ as in ‘Tender Loving Care,’ or ‘Totally Lost Cause?’” Scootaloo asked. “This clubhouse is a bit of a fi-fi-” Spike began before the dust started tickling his nose. “Take cover!” Applejack shouted in alarm as everyone got out of the way of Spike’s fire sneeze, with Applejack turning his body to face away from anything flammable. Two days ago, Applejack was watching over Spike and the Crusaders. They were playing a game that kicked up dust that tickled Spike’s nose, resulting in a sneeze that burnt down a dead tree.* “Ah-CHOOO~!” Spike sneezed, releasing a burst of emerald green fire. Thankfully, his path was clear and nothing was set ablaze. Blades of grass were singed, but, nonetheless, nopony was hurt. “Fine place you picked to sneeze, Spike,” Scootaloo chastised. “He couldn’t help it,” Sweetie Belle said, defending Spike. “He can’t always tell. When you need to sneeze, you need to sneeze.” “Anyway,” Apple Bloom said before Scootaloo could say anything else that might be hurtfu. “Applejack, ya mean ta tell us that this is goin’ ta be our new clubhouse?” Applejack leaned against one of the wall boards and said, "Well, maybe y'all can get yer Cutie Marks when ya discover yer talent fer..." Just then, the wall board she was leaning against gave way and she crashed. Fortunately, she wasn't hurt. "Uh... house cleanin'?" “Are you okay, Applejack?” Spike asked, holding his nose with a handkerchief. “Ah’m fine,” Applejack assured. “We earth ponies can take a lot o’ punishment.” “Well,” Apple Bloom said, looking over the clubhouse. “Looks like we better get started. We got a lot o’ work ta do.” “I better get something to cover my nose,” Spike said. “Ah got a spare bandana in the barn ya can use,” Applejack offered. “It should be nice n’ clean.” “If you can lead me to it,” Spike said. “That’d be great.” “Ya got it, sugarcube,” Applejack smiled. She led Spike to the barn and retrieved a red bandana folded on one of the shelves. She picked it up and gave it to Spike. “Here ya go.” “Thanks,” Spike said as he tied it around his nose. “Ah used ta wear that there bandana a lot,” Applejack said. “I’ll give it back when I’m done using it,” Spike promised. Applejack stifled a giggle. “What’s so funny?” “Ya look like a li’l bandit wearin’ the bandana like that,” Applejack said. “Hmm,” Spike said. “Maybe after we’re done fixing up the clubhouse, we can play a game.” “Y’all best help them fillies out first,” Applejack said. “Good idea,” Spike said. He headed back to the clubhouse. So, the younglings looked over the clubhouse ruins and figured out the best way to go about the job. “I’ll handle sweeping the dust,” Spike said. “Ah can sand down the splinters in the wood,” Apple Bloom said. “I can dust the furniture,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I can replace the broken glass in the windows with new glass,” Scootaloo said. “I can help make the new glass,” Spike offered. “Ah can apply some varnish to keep the clubhouse lookin’ nice, too,” Apple Bloom said. Sweetie Belle struggled to think of another job for herself. “Maybe you can put up some curtains,” Scootaloo suggested. “Or bring some flowers in a vase to spruce up the place.” Sweetie Belle liked that idea. “Thanks, Scootaloo!” And so, they all set to work. Apple Bloom began rebuilding and repainting the clubhouse on her own, making it look better than before. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Spike helped out wherever there was need for them. “Am I the only one who noticed that Apple Bloom made this look better alone than when we tried fixing a table together?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I think it’s a ‘too many chefs’ thing,” Spike said. “But, we were being carpenters, not chefs,” Scootaloo said. “It’s an expression, Scootaloo,” Spike said. “It means too many ponies working on the same thing, leading to less ideal results.” “Oh,” Scootaloo said. “That makes more sense. Thanks.” “I’ll go dust the furniture,” Sweetie Belle said. “I’ll go get some sand,” Spike said. “Scootaloo,” Apple Bloom said. “Think ya can grab some extra supplies from town?” “On my way,” Scootaloo said. “Thanks,” Apple Bloom said. “How about I make a map of Ponyville while I’m at it?” Scootaloo offered. “Sure, if yer up for it,” Apple Bloom smiled. “Or,” Spike suggested. “You can get an actual map.” “I don’t know if I have enough bits for that and supplies,” Scootaloo said. “That’s fair,” Spike shrugged. “We should at least make a list of the supplies we need.” “Let’s see,” Apple Bloom said in a thoughtful way. “We’ll need nails, pots o’ paint, n’ paintbrushes fer one thing. The supplies ah used’re just a temporary fix.” Spike jotted down the list that Apple Bloom described quickly, still making sure that the words were legible. “Okay, now, where can those things be found?” “There is a crafting supplies store in town,” Scootaloo said. “I can get the paintbrushes there.” “And there’s the hardware store in town,” Apple Bloom said. “That’s where ya can find the nails n’ paint we need.” “Alright,” Spike said. He then looked over Scootaloo’s scooter. “I think you’ll need a wagon to carry everything, though.” “That’s not a problem,” Scootaloo said. “I have a wagon I can grab from home while I’m out.” “Okay,” Spike said as he gave her the list. “Thanks,” Scootaloo. “See you guys later. I’ll be back.” And with that, she went off into town to pick up the supplies. While she was away, Spike helped Sweetie Belle move the furniture from the clubhouse. He had to put in more effort with the heavier items, but, managed well with the rest. Some time later, Scootaloo made her way back to Sweet Apple Acres to the clubhouse spot. She got the supplies that they needed, towing them in a red wagon with her scooter. Spike was carrying the last piece of furniture out. It was a table about half his height. “Hey, Spike,” Scootaloo smiled. “You’re doing awesome!” “Thanks,” Spike said as he placed the table down. “And thank you for picking up the supplies.” He wiped his forehead with a rag. “Can I get you anything?” Scootaloo asked. “Well,” Spike asked. “Do you happen to have any green apple rock candy?” “I think I have some from a goodie bag I got at one of Pinkie’s parties,” Scootaloo said. She searched through her saddlebag and found a chunk of green apple rock candy. “How’s this?” “That’s perfect,” Spike said. Scootaloo gave it to him and he took a big bite out of it. “Mm~!” He offered it back, but, Scootaloo told him he could keep it. “No thanks,” Scootaloo said. “I mostly prefer orange.” “Okie dokie,” Spike said as he finished the rock candy. After swallowing, he said, “Just like an emerald.” “Wait,” Scootaloo asked. “Gems actually do have flavor?” “Well, they do to me,” Spike said. “Wow,” Scootaloo said. “I had heard Sweetie Belle say something along those lines during recess earlier this week, but, it’s cool to learn from the source.” They suddenly heard singing. They followed the sound and found Sweetie Belle dusting the furniture with her tail. “We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders~ Hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm-hmm~ Hmm-hmm, never stop the journey~ Hmmm~” “Nice singing,” Spike said. “What’s that you’re singing anyway?” Scootaloo asked. “I hadn't heard anything like that before.” “I was trying to come up with a Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song,” Sweetie Belle explained. “That’s awesome!” Scootaloo smiled. “Capes, a clubhouse, and a theme song? Boy, we’re really coming together with this!” “The lyrics could use some workshopping, though,” Spike said. The fillies didn’t understand. “What do you mean?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I mean the words in the song need work,” Spike explained. “Well, it is a work in progress,” Sweetie Belle said. “I only have one part so far.” “It’s a good start anyway,” Scootaloo said. “How about we work on it together?” Spike suggested. “Sure, that sounds great.” Sweetie Belle smiled. Later, Applejack and a healed Caramel trotted up to the clubhouse. They saw that it looked as good as new, refurbished and everything. “Wow,” Caramel said. “They really fixed the place up.” “Yeah,” Applejack smiled. “Looks just as good as it did when ah was a filly.” She leaned close to her coltfriend. “‘Member those good ol’ days?” Caramel, with his cheeks red with an affectionate blush, smiled and nodded his head. “If it has to do with you, odds are I remember it,” the stallion said. “Ah know,” Applejack smiled. She kissed his cheek. “Well, uh,” Caramel giggled. “We should see how Spike and the fillies are doing.” They climbed the ramp leading to the clubhouse. They then heard the fillies singing inside. Spike had helped them with the lyrics of their new theme song and they were practicing singing it. “They all say that you get your mark,” Sang Sweetie Belle. “When the time is really right~” “Okay, good, good,” Spike said. “And ya know, just what yer supposed ta do~” Apple Bloom sang. “Good, good,” Spike said. “AnD yOuR tAlEnT cOmEs To LiGhT~!” Scootaloo sang, off-key. Applejack, Caramel, and Spike cringed at her singing. “Okay,” Spike said. “Lyrics are good, but, you should work on your delivery.” Apple Bloom looked over and saw Applejack and Caramel at the window. She excitedly let the two in. Applejack tried getting in first, but, found that the door was a bit too small for her now. “Uh-oh,” she said. “Ah don’t think ah can fit through this no more.” Spike stepped up to help Applejack out of the jam she found herself in. He carefully looked and saw that her backside was outside the door while her front was inside. Her flanks were clearly too wide to squeeze through. “Okay,” Spike said. “I think it’s pretty obvious you’ve outgrown the door here.” “No kiddin’,” Applejack said. “Ain’t no way mah rump’s squeezin’ through this.” “Since coming in won’t work,” Spike said. “We’ll have to push you out.” “Right,” Applejack said. “Go ahead, but, be careful.” Spike and the fillies tried pushing Applejack out. Unfortunately, the mare was wedged a bit tightly. “Okay, change of plans,” Spike said. “Caramel, go get some soap.” “On it,” Caramel called. So, he went to grab some soap. “What’s the soap for?” Scootaloo asked. “Caramel rubs some on Applejack’s body and she’ll be lubricated enough to slide out more easily,” Spike explained. “Ah get it,” Apple Bloom said. “Nice thinkin’, Spike.” “Ah’ll say,” Applejack said. “That’s some real practical thinkin’, sugarcube.”** A short time later, Caramel returned with the soap. “What now?” “Rub some on mah body, Caramel,” Applejack said. Caramel did so. As he did, Applejack kept trying to suppress a few giggles. “Is Applejack okay?” Spike asked. “She’s fine,” Apple Bloom said. “She’s just ticklish.” Applejack’s middle was soon slippery enough for her to be pushed out. While Spike and the fillies pushed her front, Caramel used his teeth to pull on her tail. Soon, she was out with a slight jolt. She sighed in relief. “Thanks, y’all,” she said. “For future reference,” Spike said. “I think we should make the door a bit bigger so something like this doesn’t happen again.” “That makes sense,” Apple Bloom said before turning her attention to Applejack and Caramel. “So, like what we did with the place?” “Ah’ll say,” Applejack said. “Looks as good as it did when ah was a filly.” She glanced at her backside in a bit of embarrassment. “Though, ah guess it can’t really handle the size of mah rump after years o’ apple treats.” “And,” Caramel said. “We were listening to that song you were singing.” “It’s our Cutie Mark Crusader theme song,” Sweetie Belle said. “Theme song, huh?” Applejack asked. “Yeah,” Spike said. “I’ve been helping them workshop it.” “That’s mighty nice o’ ya,” Applejack smiled. “Scootaloo made good lyrics,” Spike said. “But, her delivery needs work.” “We noticed,” Caramel said. “No offense, Scootaloo.” “None taken,” Scootaloo said. “My aunts have considered giving me lessons. Nothing’s been decided yet.***” “Right,” Applejack said. “Well, me n’ Caramel got apples ta pick. See y’all later.” “See you guys later,” Sweetie Belle said. After the older ponies left, Spike checked with the fillies. “So, what’s the first order of business?” “Well,” Scootaloo said. “With our map of Ponyville, we can go to different locations and try different activities.” “Ah say we try somethin’ at Sweet Apple Acres first,” said Apple Bloom. “Since we’re already there n’ all.” “That’s a great idea, Apple Bloom,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Who made you the leader?” Scootaloo asked Apple Bloom. “Wait,” Spike said. “This group has a chain of command?” “Ah was just offerin’ a suggestion is all,” Apple Bloom said. “Ah never said ah was the leader.” “Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “Though, Apple Bloom was the one to come up with the name for our group.” “I feel like we’re getting off-track,” Spike said. “Oh, right,” Scootaloo said. “Sorry.” “We can deal with a chain of command later,” Spike said. “For now, let’s look for something to do.” “Yeah!” The Cutie Mark Crusaders cheered. They began with filling the troughs for the pigs. The troughs were loaded with food scraps and slop that the pigs enjoyed. Once the troughs were full, Sweetie Belle rang the bell. Apple Bloom opened a gate and the pigs came running out to enjoy their meal. The fillies checked their flanks for a mark. Nothing was present, much to their disappointment. “It didn’t work,” Apple Bloom said. “Bummer,” Scootaloo groaned. “We’ll have to cross Sweet Apple Acres off,” Sweetie Belle said. “Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Sweetie Belle, ya know if Rarity needs any helpin’ hooves at Carousel Boutique?” “Spike’s here, isn’t he?” Sweetie Belle said. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Spike asked. “I don’t help Rarity all the time.” “You do sometimes, though,” Scootaloo said. “Besides, others can help Rarity as much as you can, right?” “Yeah,” Spike said. “Besides, I’m mostly Twilight’s assistant. The only reason I’m not helping her right now is because she insisted I spend more time being a kid.” “That makes sense,” Apple Bloom said. “The problem with that is I don’t really know how,” Spike said. “How exactly do you not know how to be a kid?” Sweetie Belle asked. “As soon as I first learned to walk,” Spike explained. “Twilight’s started teaching me how to do chores. When I was four, she taught me how to read and write so I could help her with her homework.” “That’s so sad,” Sweetie Belle said. “No wonder she wants you to spend more time being a kid.” “But, I don’t understand why,” Spike said. “It feels like she wants me to unlearn everything she taught me.” “Well, we can help you with that,” Scootaloo said. “We’re kids!” “Maybe we can help out at Sugarcube Corner,” Apple Bloom suggested. “That’s a great idea,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Plus, we might get free candy and treats for our efforts.” Later, Spike and the fillies reached Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie was busy with a different task, so, Mrs. Cake appointed the three fillies with making taffy. “So, we put ‘em in the mixin’ bowl?” Apple Bloom asked. “That’s right,” Mrs Cake smiled. “We can do that!” Scootaloo said eagerly. “Don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything,” Mrs. Cake smiled and she left Spike and the fillies to their work. Spike collected bricks of taffy in different colors. “This is a lot of taffy,” Spike commented. “It’s Taffy Season fer Sugarcube Corner,” Apple Bloom said. “Taffy Season?” Spike asked. “When they make n’ sell more taffy over their other usual treats,” Apple Bloom said. “It’s a tradition.” Sweetie Belle sniffed the taffy. “Mm~” Sweetie Belle smiled. “And this rainbow sherbet flavored taffy smells amazing when it’s being freshly stretched.” “Let’s get to work,” Scootaloo said.. So, the fillies and Spike loaded the taffy stretcher with the blocks of taffy. Apple Bloom pulled a lever that activated the stretching process. The fillies looked with pride. Spike, however, noticed that Scootaloo’s tail got a little too close to the stretching taffy. “Uh, Scootaloo?” he said. “Huh?” Scootaloo answered. “What is it, Spi-IIIIIIIIIKE?!” The taffy stuck onto Scootaloo’s tail and the machine dragged her in. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle gasped. Spike hurriedly turned off the machine and they helped Scootaloo out. “Thanks, Spike,” the pegasus filly said. “Now I know how stretching taffy feels.” “Good thing you were there, Spike,” Sweetie Belle said. “Otherwise, we might’ve gotten pulled in ourselves.” “Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Now, did that do anythin’ fer us?” They checked their flanks. “Nope,” Scootaloo said down-heartedly. “We should probably replace all the taffy in the bowl,” Spike said. “Ponies won’t appreciate tail hair in their taffy.” “Good idea,” Apple Bloom said. They replaced the taffy just as Mrs. Cake came in. “Hey, girls. Hello, Spike,” Mrs. Cake smiled. “How’s it going?” “I got pulled into the bowl,” Scootaloo said. “We’re replacing the taffy.” “Oh dear,” Mrs. Cake gasped. “You’re not hurt, are you, dearie?” “No,” Scootaloo said. “Spike turned the machine off just in time.” “Oh, that’s good,” Mrs. Cake smiled. “That was very mature of you, Spike.” “I think we should leave before we make a bigger mess,” Spike said. “Alright, if you’re sure,” Mrs. Cake said patiently. “Thank you for your time anyway.” She even gave them each some silver bits as compensation. Spike and the fillies left and Spike crossed off Sugarcube Corner. “Well, now what?” Scootaloo asked as she cleaned the excess taffy off of herself. Spike looked over the map. “Maybe we could go to the fields,” he suggested. “What could we do there?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Well, I could bring a guessing game Twilight and I play on days off,” Spike offered. “That’s a great idea,” Apple Bloom smiled. “We can play it n’ see if we’re mind readers er somethin’.” Spike sighed, but, went along with it. He headed to the library. “Twilight,” he said. “Yes, Spike?” Twilight responded. “Do you remember where we put that ‘Guess the shape’ game?” he asked. “It should be on the left shelf in our bedroom,” Twilight said. “Why?” “I suggested playing it with the crusaders,” he explained. “Oh, that’s nice,” Twilight smiled. “Have fun with it.” Spike collected the game and met the fillies at the fields. He set up a rectangular device with buttons on one side and a card display on the other.  “So, how does this game work?” Scootaloo asked. “Well, there has to be at least two players,” Spike said. “A guesser and a drawer.” “Ooh, can Ah guess?” Apple Bloom suggested. “Sure,” Spike said. “You sit on the side of the machine with the buttons.” Apple Bloom did so. “Now, as you can see, each button has a different shape.” “Yup,” Apple Bloom concurred. “Now,” Spike explained. “You have to press a button to guess the card that the drawer flipped over.” “Ah can do that,” Apple Bloom smiled with confidence. “The drawer,” Spike continued. “Flips over the top card in the deck, but, can’t tell the guesser what they flipped.” “Sounds easy enough,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over the top card. The shape upon it was a red heart. “Okay, Apple Bloom,” Spike said. “Take your guess.” “Hmm,” Apple Bloom said softly. She thought hard and soon made her guess. She pressed the button that had a yellow filled-in circle on it. “Did ah get it?” “No,” Sweetie Belle said. “How many more turns does she get, Spike?” “She gets two more turns,” Spike said. “But, if she answered correctly, you and her would’ve been able to swap places.” “Okay,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over a second card. It showed a blue star. “Time to guess again, Apple Bloom,” Spike said. Apple Bloom thought and she pressed the button with the outline of a square. “Wrong again,” Sweetie Belle said. She then flipped over a third card showing a four-leaf clover. Apple Bloom thought very hard. She then had the “brilliant” idea to push all of the buttons on the panel. This resulted in the machine throwing all its cards at Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. “And it looks like Apple Bloom forfeits,” Spike said. “It had to have been at least one o’ ‘em,” Apple Bloom said. “You’re only supposed to push one button at a time,” Spike explained. “Pressing all six at once means you give up.” “Well,” Apple Bloom said, sheepishly. “Ah didn’t know that.” “How does anypony win at this game?” Scootaloo asked. “Whoever gets three correct guesses wins****,” Spike said. “Guess ah’m not cut out to be a mind-reader,” Apple Bloom said. “That’d be more of a unicorn thing,” Spike said. “Mind-reading is a type of magic and, as you know, earth ponies can’t use magic on their own.” “So, maybe it was more o’ a Sweetie Belle thing?” Apple Bloom pondered. “Well,” Spike said. “Twilight told me that unicorns capable of reading minds, or telepaths as they’re called, are extremely rare and typically frowned upon as the ability to read minds is considered an invasion of privacy and rude.” “Oh,” Apple Bloom said. “Maybe we should stop trying this before any of us find that out,” Sweetie Belle suggested. “Good idea,” Spike said. “So, what now?” Scootaloo said. “Well, when we passed Carousel Boutique,” Sweetie Belle said. “I saw that Rarity’s dyeing manes.” “Maybe we could try our hooves at that,” Apple Bloom said. “Do any of you know anything about dyeing manes?” Spike asked. “Isn’t it just like painting?” Scootaloo asked. “But, on hair instead of on canvases? What would you know about it, anyway? You don’t even have any hair.” “Leave him alone,” Sweetie Belle said. “We can at least try anyway,” Apple Bloom said. So, they went to Carousel Boutique. Sweetie Belle was promoting the hair-dyeing specialty outside of the boutique to help bring in clients. Spike looked a little nervous, which Rarity noticed. “I can tell you’re uneasy for them, Spike,” Rarity said. “Yeah,” Spike said. “I know they want to get their Cutie Marks, but, I’m starting to think they’re going about it the wrong way.” “Well, Spike,” Rarity said. “The best way to learn from a mistake is to make a mistake. The three are enthusiastic about getting their Cutie Marks and do have the habit of doing things without thinking them through. That happens to a lot of us when we’re young.” They suddenly heard a mare crying. They turn their attention to see a mare with a rainbow colored afro wig crying and about to run out of the boutique. “I don’t know what Frou Frou’s problem is,” Scootaloo said. “Rainbow manes are awesome!” “Her problem, darling,” Rarity said bluntly. “Is that she did not want to look like a circus clown. Did she tell you that she wanted a rainbow mane?” “She didn’t say she didn’t,” Scootaloo answered. Rarity groaned lowly and she turned her attention to Frou-Frou. “Don’t worry, Frou-Frou. I have an easy remedy for your mane color, free of charge.” Frou-Frou sniffled and followed Rarity. “Thank you, Rarity. You’re a lifesaver.” The crusaders checked their flanks. “Nothin’,” Apple Bloom said dismally. Spike crossed off Carousel Boutique and the fields. “Now what?” Sweetie Bloom said. “How about rock-climbing?” Scootaloo suggested. “That sounds excitin’!” Apple Bloom smiled. Spike sighed and followed the fillies. They found a patch of rock they could climb. They fastened each other as a chain with some rope. The fillies put in a lot of effort while Spike casually walked up. “Maybe we need a bigger rock to climb,” Scootaloo said. “Not a good idea,” Spike said. “Well, since this takes a lot o’ effort,” Apple Bloom said. “How ‘bout we find something that’s a mite easier?” “How about scuba diving?” Sweetie Belle suggested. Spike grew nervous. “What’s wrong?” Scootaloo asked. “I can’t swim,” Spike said. “Oh,” Scootaloo said. “Then, you can stay out of the water and keep watch for us. Would that work for you?” “Okay,” Spike said. So, the four went to a nearby lake in Ponyville. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo put on scuba diving gear and they swam in the water. Spike, as promised, was on the shore of the same lake. He watched the fillies jump into the water and sat down with his elbows on his knees and his head supported by his hands. “I wish I could do that,” Spike said to himself before letting a single tear come out of his eye.***** Meanwhile, the three fillies swam through the water, observing the wonders of the deep. They suddenly saw something that made them beat a hasty retreat. It was a lake-inhabiting serpent with four horns sticking out the back of its head and a gem on its forehead******. They came ashore and found Spike looking rather sad. “What’s wrong, Spike?” Sweetie Belle asked gently. “I wish I could swim,” Spike said. “I’ve seen ponies do it over the summer since Twilight and I came here and it looked like they were having fun.” “Well,” Apple Bloom said. “Why don’t ya ask somepony ta teach ya how ta swim?” “I kept trying,” Spike said. “But, for some reason, I just couldn’t get the words out.” “Well,” Scootaloo said. “Maybe we could teach you how to swim.” She looked back at the lake. “Just not in that lake.” “We can ask Twilight if she’s okay with it,” Sweetie Belle said. “Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Let’s go over n’ see her. It’s gettin’ late anyhow.” Spike and the fillies arrived at the Golden Oak Library, where Twilight was waiting. “Hi, everyone,” Twilight smiled. “How was your day?” “Well,” Scootaloo said. “We didn’t get our Cutie Marks.” “But,” Sweetie Belle said. “We’re going to teach Spike how to swim since he wants to learn how. Is it okay if we help him learn how to swim, Twilight?” Twilight turned to face Spike. “Spike,” she said. “I didn’t know you were interested in learning how to swim. Why didn’t you tell me?” “Well, I wanted to,” Spike said. “But, for some reason, I couldn’t get the words out.” “Well, if you’re that keen on the idea,” Twilight smiled. “Then, I’ll allow the girls to teach you.” “Really?!” Spike said with his tail comically wagging like a dog’s. “But, I want to be the one supervising,” Twilight said. Spike tightly embraced Twilight. “Oh, thank you, Twilight!” Spike exclaimed happily. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” “Maybe we’ll get our Cutie Marks in being swim instructors,” Sweetie Belle said. This was a poor choice of words, though, as Spike turned to face the crusaders. “Really?” he asked. “Really?! Is getting your Cutie Marks all you care about?!” “Well,” Scootaloo said. “We did come together in the hopes that we’d get ours, but-” Twilight could tell that the situation was escalating and quickly stepped in. “Now, now, girls,” she said. “I think you’re going about this all wrong. Instead of trying things in areas you’re not familiar with, maybe you should try practicing what you’re already good at.” She then noticed that Spike wasn’t any happier for taking the crusaders’ side and quickly corrected herself. “And maybe when you’re teaching Spike to swim, try not to make it about you and getting your marks. Focus more on helping him fulfill his own dream, please.” Twilight then rubbed Spike’s left cheek gently with a smile on her face. This made Spike feel much better. “Consider how he feels. How would you like it if he used your quest to get your marks as an excuse to get gems?” The crusaders took words to heart. They realized they wouldn’t like it and felt guilty about considering using teaching him to swim as an excuse to fulfill their own dreams. “Yeah, you’re right, Twilight,” Sweetie Belle said. “I’m sorry, Spike. I should have kept that idea to myself.” She nuzzled his left cheek. “When we’re teaching you to swim, we’ll focus on teaching you to swim. I promise.” “Thank you,” Spike smiled, feeling much better. “Ah promise, too,” Apple Bloom said. “And I promise, too,” Scootaloo said. “I think I have a way to help you remember your promise,” Twilight said. “How?” the fillies asked. Twilight levitated them each a tube of emerald green paint. “This is waterproof paint,” Twilight said. “It’s emerald green, Spike’s favorite color. Paint some of it on your swimgear so that when you see it, you’ll remember that you’re teaching Spike to swim for his sake and your Cutie Marks are irrelevant.” They put the tubes of paint in their saddlebags. “Thanks, Twilight,” the fillies said. “We better head back,” Apple Bloom said. “We’ll see you guys later,” Scootaloo smiled. “Bye,” Sweetie Belle said. So, the three fillies headed home while Twilight and Spike took care of their responsibilities in the Golden Oak Library. The next day, the trio of fillies met up back at the clubhouse after school. “So, we’re all agreed?” Apple Bloom asked. “Yeah, we are!” Scootaloo said excitedly. “Uh,” Sweetie Belle said. “Agreed on what?” “Askin’ Spike ta help prepare our act fer the talent show!” Apple Bloom said. “We talked about it on the way here from school!” “I knew that,” Sweetie Belle said with an embarrassed blush. “But, the poster says only students of the school can participate. Spike’s not a student.” “True,” Apple Bloom said. “But, Miss Cheerilee said that he could still help us out behind the scenes.” “Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “This will be a way for him to socialize with foals who are around his age.” “Well, let’s go,” Sweetie Belle said. So, the three fillies went over to the Golden Oak Library. Apple Bloom politely knocked on the front door. Spike answered. “Hey, girls,” Spike said. “How was school?” “Oh, it was fine,” Apple Bloom said. “We found somethin’ we’d like help with.” She pulled the poster for the talent show out of her saddle bag. “The Ponyville Schoolhouse Talent Show?” Spike said, reading the poster aloud. “How can I help with this? It says non-students can’t enter.” “Miss Cheerilee said you could help behind the scenes,” Scootaloo said. “I could?” Spike said, getting excited. “Well, I’ll do my best!” He then realized something. “Wait, I’ll need Twilight’s permission first.” “Oh, right,” Sweetie Belle said. “Go ahead and ask her.” Spike went to ask Twilight, who was reading a book intently. “Uh, Twilight?” Twilight heard Spike’s voice and she set her book down, focusing her attention on the drake. “Yes, Spike?” “The crusaders are asking me to help them with the talent show at school,” he said. “Can I?” “Of course, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “Have fun with that.” “Thanks, Twilight!” Spike said. “You’re very welcome, Spike,” Twilight smiled. “Stay safe and make sure you’re home before dinnertime, please.” Spike saluted and went to the crusaders. “She said I can help!” “Yay!” The CMCs cheered happily. They then led him back to their clubhouse. Along the way, they stopped for supplies for their act. “So, what are you planning on doing for the show?” Spike asked. “We’re going to perform our theme song as an epic rock ballad!” Scootaloo exclaimed eagerly. “Maybe we’ll find out what our hidden talents are,” Sweetie Belle said. “Uh, you’re kind of missing the point here,” Spike said. “A talent show isn’t about learning new talents. It’s about showing the talents you already have.” “How do we do that?” Apple Bloom asked. “Well, Sweetie Belle’s a great singer,” Spike said. “Apple Bloom’s pretty skilled with construction and design, and there’s Scootaloo with her scooter and dancing.” “So, you’re saying if we did things that way,” Scootaloo said, thinking aloud. “We could win the talent show?” “Exactly,” Spike said. “But, I wouldn’t recommend trying one of your other crusaders’ talents. We all know that Scootaloo’s not exactly the best when it comes to singing.” Scootaloo just blushed sheepishly at the remark. “My aunts said they’ll sign me up for singing lessons next week.” “And Sweetie Belle isn’t as good with fashion as her sister,” Spike said. “What about the capes I made?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Well, those were good,” Spike admitted. “Though, the patches did have telltale stitches that a professional would hide.” “Oh, right,” Sweetie Belle said. “N’ whenever ah dance, it’s like ah have three left hooves,” Apple Bloom said. “Right,” Spike said somewhat bluntly. He then had a more lighthearted voice as he asked. “So, are you guys ready to do this thing?” “I certainly am,” Sweetie Belle said. “Same here,” Apple Bloom said. “Ditto,” Scootaloo said. “Maybe ya can help all three o’ us,” Apple Bloom suggested. “Me with props n’ costumes, Sweetie Belle with lyrics, n’ Scootaloo with the… uh… what’s it called when dances’re planned out?” “Choreography?” Spike said. “That’s it,” Apple Bloom smiled. “Core-eh-ah-ger-ffy.” “Eh, close enough,” Spike said. “Though, I can’t help you all at once. I’m only one dragon.” “That makes sense,” Sweetie Belle said. “We’ll try and manage as best we can.” “Sounds good,” Spike smiled. Spike started by helping out Apple Bloom designing the props. While Apple Bloom was painting the scenery, she made sure to wash her brushes before switching to a new color. In a slight slip of her mind, Apple Bloom painted something on Spike’s hip. “Oops!” Apple Bloom yelped in surprise. “Sorry, Spike!” “It’s okay,” Spike said as he wiped the paint off. “I’ll go see if Sweetie Belle needs help.” “Okay,” Apple Bloom smiled. “See ya later.” Spike headed to Sweetie Belle. The unicorn filly was warming up her vocals. “Okay, let’s see if I got this,” she said. She cleared her throat a little bit and she began to sing. “So the three of us fight the fight There is nothing that we fear~ We’ll have to figure out what we’ll do next Till our Cutie Marks are here~” “Not bad, Sweetie Belle,” Spike said. “Thanks,” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Although, I’m a little bit nervous about singing in front of the crowd. I never did that before.” “Ah, stage fright,” Spike said. “I can relate.” “So,” Sweetie Belle said. “How do I make sure I don’t get nervous?” “Well, Shining Armor taught me a little trick,” Spike said. “Whenever you start worrying about looking silly, imagine everypony else looking silly.” “Everypony looking silly, huh?” Sweetie Belle said. “Hmm… I think I can give that a try. Thanks, Spike.” “You’re welcome,” Spike said. “I’ll go check on Scootaloo.” “Okay,” Sweetie Belle smiled. Spike went over to Scootaloo. The pegasus filly was stretching to keep herself limber. “Stretching?” he asked. “Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “I don’t want to accidentally pull a muscle while dancing.” “Good call,” Spike said. “Shining Armor told me that pulled muscles are not fun.” “Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “So, I think at one point, I could dance like this.” And she demonstrated an impressive spin while she was on her right front leg. Spike gave an impressed whistle. “Way to go,” he said. “Thanks, Spike,” Scootaloo smiled. “Where should I put this move?” Spike thought about it. “Hmm,” he said. “Maybe somewhere in the middle? I’m not sure, honestly. I’m not really a dancer. I’m kind of clumsy.” “That’s okay,” Scootaloo said. “I do appreciate the advice, though. Maybe I can teach you some dance moves as payback.” “Really?” Spike asked. “Yeah,” Scootaloo said. “If you’re up for it, that is. And if it’s okay with Twilight.” Later, Applejack and Caramel were making their way to the clubhouse. “Ah wonder how they’re doin’,” Applejack said. “We’ll just have to find out, won’t we?” said Caramel. “Ah ain’t goin’ inside, though,” Applejack said. “Not unless they made the door bigger.” So, they went up the ramp and peeked through the window. The fillies were practicing their choreography while Spike watched. Applejack and Caramel were amazed with their progress. “Well, ah’ll be,” the mare said. “Spike’s really helpful,” Caramel smiled. Their voices caught the attention of the fillies and Spike. Apple Bloom smiled and opened the window. This served as a compromise so that they could still hear each other without anypony getting stuck between the door frames. “Did ya see our practice?” she asked. “We did,” Applejack smiled. “Y’all are doin’ great!” “Good to see Spike helping you with your dancing,” Caramel said. “Uh, actually,” Spike confessed. “That was mostly Scootaloo.” “Yeah,” Scootaloo said, modestly. “But, he did allow me to help with his dancing skills.” Applejack noticed that Spike was hugging his tail against his body and knew him well enough to know that that was a nervous habit of his. “What’s the matter, Spike?” Applejack asked. “Well…” Spike said as he stroked his tail. “I’m not sure I’ll be very good at dancing. I’m kind of clumsy.” “Aww, that’s okay, Spike,” Applejack smiled. “Ya don’t have ta be good at somethin’ right away. The important thang ah learned about dancing is that ya got ta have fun with it.” Spike was surprised and let go of his tail. “You know how to dance?” “Mostly square dancin’,” Applejack said. “Usually, I like ta dance with family members er with my pals at a party.” She put a hoof around Caramel. “Long as it’s with mah stallion, ah’m happy.” Caramel blushed happily. Later that night, the talent show began. The first act was Snips and Snails putting on a magic act. To save face, Puppy Dog Tails was watching from backstage. “Please,” Tails said quietly. “Try to remember what I taught you.” “And, when I lift this hat,” Snips projected. “The rabbit will disappear. But, something yummy will appear in its place.” So far, so good, Tails said internally. Why do I still have this nagging feeling that something— Snips lifted the top hat, but, nothing was there. “Huh?” Snips said. “Where are the—” He saw Snails eating some carrots. Tails could only facehoof. And there it is. “Snails!” Snips exclaimed. “Those carrots were for our magic trick!” He chased his taller brother off the stage. The audience couldn’t help but laugh, but, they applauded anyway. Backstage, Twist was getting ready to take her turn next. “I hope everypony liketh my danth number,” Twist smiled happily. The haughty laughter of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon could be heard. Twist tried not to let the laughter bug her. “We’re sure to win,” the pink earth filly said. “We’ll be real show stoppers.”******* “Yeah,” Scootaloo muttered under her breath. “You’ll stop the show before your act.” “Shows how much you know, Blank Flank,” Silver Spoon said mockingly. Tails sensed an opportunity to turn the tables. “You know,” he said to the snobby duo. “In the theater, it’s bad luck to say good luck. So, by insulting them, you’re actually complimenting them.” “Oh, really~?” Diamond Tiara said, falling for Puppy Dog Tails’ trick. She and Silver Spoon then turned their attention to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “You three are going to do great!” “Yeah!” Silver Spoon said. “You guys are going to make history with your act~!” Tails silently snickered to himself as Miss Cheerilee announced Twist to be next. “And now,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “Dancing to a selection from ‘My Fair Mare,’ please give a warm welcoming stomp to Twist!” Twist walked onto the stage. Sweetie Belle called out supportively to her. “Break a leg, Twist!” Sweetie Belle called. Apple Bloom was surprised. “Is what Tails said true?” she asked. “Not all of it,” Sweetie Belle said, whispering so Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon couldn’t hear. “For the stage, it is bad luck to say ‘Good luck.’ But, that thing about insulting someone as a compliment isn’t true. Instead of saying, ‘good luck,’ performers encourage others to ‘break a leg.’” “Then, why did he say it in a way that made it sound like it was?” Scootaloo asked. “Knowin’ him,” Apple Bloom said. “It’s ta mess with ‘em.” The three couldn’t help but giggle amongst themselves. A short time later, Twist had finished her act and the audience applauded. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were preparing for their act since they were next. They waited for Miss Cheerilee to announce them. “The audience is going to love this,” Diamond Tiara smirked. “And now,” Miss Cheerilee said. “We present Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, performing the… dance of flyers? What?” The two fillies waltzed onto the stage with their heads held high. They each carried a stack of paper on their backs. Silver Spoon set down an electric keyboard close by her and she began to play a ditty on it. “Legend tells of a stallion named Filthy Rich~” Diamond Tiara narrated as she passed flyers out. “Wait a minute,” Miss Cheerilee said as she began to suspect something. She picked up one of the flyers and looked it over. Meanwhile, Diamond Tiara continued her routine. “So,” Diamond Tiara narrated. “You’ll be sure to get a good deal on all of the necessities you need, only when you invest with Filthy Rich.” “Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon are disqualified,” Miss Cheerilee said. The audience gasped at this. The two fillies on stage were flabbergasted. “What?!” Diamond Tiara gasped. “Impossible!” “This is an act of corporate advertisement,” Miss Cheerilee said. “Which does not count as talent.” The two fillies groan with exasperation and march themselves off of the stage in a huff. They see Tails laughing heartily. They were too embarrassed to even talk back to him. Backstage, the Cutie Mark Crusaders took deep breaths. They were to go on after Peachy Pie and Sunny Daze. “One more act and it’s our turn,” Apple Bloom said. “I’m still feeling a little nervous about singing in front of a crowd,” Sweetie Belle said. “Though, I have to remember the advice Spike gave me.” “What advice was that?” Scootaloo asked. Sweetie Belle tried to remember what Spike told her. “Um…” Sweetie Belle began. “Was it, ‘If you’re worried about the audience doing something silly, be silly?’ Wait, that’s not right. Was it, ‘If you’re worried about the audience booing you, you should boo the audience?’ No, that wasn’t it, either. Was it-” She groaned in frustration. “Oh, I can’t remember what he said!” “It’s goin’ ta be okay, Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom said comfortingly. “Yeah,” Scootaloo said supportingly. “Apple Bloom and I are right with you. We got this together.” While they were talking, Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie finished their act. “Looks like we’re up next,” Sweetie Belle said. “We just have to do our best is all.” She took a deep breath. “And now,” Cheerilee announced. “The grand finale. Please give it up for Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo as the Cutie Mark Crusaders, performing an original song.” The crusaders set up the props and sets. When they were prepared, they put on the instrumental for their song. Sweetie Belle was in the center, Apple Bloom was to her right, and Scootaloo was to her left. With her nerves, though, Sweetie Belle’s singing voice was noticeably different. “Look here are three little ponies Ready to sing for this crowd Listen up, cuz here’s our story I’m gonna sing it VERY LOUD~!” The audience cringed at her voice. Applejack, Rarity, Twilight, and Spike watched on nervously. Sweetie Belle continued to sing as Scootaloo started to dance. “When you’re a younger pony And your flank is very bare~” Apple Bloom snuck backstage and pulled on a rope. The rope had a sun prop that she painted to help with the performance. “Feels like the sun will never come When your Cutie Mark’s not there~ So, the three of us fight the fight!” On the last three words, Scootaloo did some fighting-like dance moves. Apple Bloom then prepared to release some ropes showcasing props of spiders and ghosts. “There is nothing that we fear~ We’ll have to figure out what we’ll do next Till our Cutie Marks are here~!” The three fillies then began to sing together. “We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are~ And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our Cutie Marks~” Scootaloo’s singing didn’t really enhance the performance. Over time, however, Sweetie Belle began to get more comfortable with singing. “They all say that you’ll get your mark When the time is really right And you know just what you’re supposed to do And your talent comes to light~ But it’s not as easy as it sounds And that waiting’s hard to do~ So we test our talents everywhere Until our faces turn blue~!” Apple Bloom used a blue spotlight on Sweetie Belle’s face. Apple Bloom made her way back to the stage and the three began to sing together again. “We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are~ And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our Cutie Marks~ We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are~ And we will never stop the journey, Not until we have our Cutie Marks~!” They looked at the audience nervously. The audience were silent for a moment before they stomped their hooves and applauded the three fillies. Hearing the audience applaud made the three fillies smile. “This is looking promising,” Sweetie Belle said. “We’ll see what happens, though,” Scootaloo said. Later, the contestants were lined up on stage. “And now,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “For the prizes for best acts. Our first award goes to Snips and Snails for Best Magic Act. Granted, it was the only magic act tonight, but, still. Congratulations.” The two were given medals depicting a magician's top hat. “We’d just like to thank our brother, Puppy Dog Tails,” Snails said proudly. “Without his help,” Snips said happily. “None of this would be possible. Can he have a medal, too?” “Certainly,” Miss Cheerilee said. “As he supervised you during your act, he technically participated.” “Thanks, Miss Cheerilee,” Snips and Snails smiled. Tails stepped up to accept the medal. The audience applauded for all three of the colts. “For once, I’m actually glad to be your brother,” Tails said. “The next award goes to Twist,” Miss Cheerilee smiled. “For Best Dance Act.” Twist was awarded a medal depicting a pony ballerina. “Thank you tho much!” Twist happily lisped. “Thith ith for you, Big Thithter!” Bon Bon waved to her little sister from the audience. “Way to go, Twist!” Bon Bon smiled. The audience cheered for Twist. “The next award goes to Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie,” Miss Cheerilee continued. “For Best Dramatic Act.” The two are given medals depicting theatrical masks. “Thank you, Miss Cheerilee!” Sunny smiled. “This was so much fun!” Peachy smiled. Diamond Tiara looked sourly at Tails. “You said it was bad luck to say good luck in the theater,” she accused. “I said it was bad luck,” Tails said smugly. “I didn’t say for who.” “And the last award goes to,” Miss Cheerilee announced. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders!” The Crusaders stepped up. “I don’t understand,” Sweetie Belle said confused. “Why did we get an award? Weren’t we terrible?” “You get the award for best comedy act,” she said. “Well,” Scootaloo said. “We hadn’t planned on this act being a comedy one, but, we’ll take it.” They were given medals depicting a jester’s hat and went backstage. “Well, it may not be what we were expectin’,” Apple Bloom said. “But, we at least got a prize.” They removed their costumes to see if they got their marks. Unfortunately, their flanks were still bare. This left the three feeling disappointed. Spike and Twilight stepped up. “Hey, girls,” Twilight smiled. “You guys were great up there. Did you have fun?” “Yeah…” the fillies responded with barely any emotion. Spike noticed. “What’s wrong?” Spike asked. “We worked so hard and we still didn’t get our Cutie Marks,” Sweetie Belle said. “I know you said that we shouldn’t do things just because that’s what we want to do, but, we can’t help but yearn for them.” “Well,” Spike said. “I think the problem is that you tried too hard.” “What do ya mean, Spike?” Apple Bloom asked. “Well,” Spike explained. “For starters, you tried forcing yourselves to do things that aren’t meant for you.” “But, you told us to do the things that were more comfortable for us,” Scootaloo said. “I meant before that,” Spike said. “Although, Sweetie Belle was having a bit of difficulty singing despite her talent.” “Yeah,” Sweetie Belle said. “And I completely forgot the advice that you gave me. Nerves got the better of me.” “And that’s something for you to work on,” Spike said. “Just keep practicing.” “Yeah,” Twilight said. “Still, you three have each other and you have all the time in the world to figure out who you really are.” “All you need is a little patience,” Spike said. This made the fillies feel a little bit better. “Yeah,” Apple Bloom said. “Y’all’re right.” “Still,” Scootaloo said. “As long as we don’t have Cutie Marks, Diamond Tiara will keep picking on us.” “You’re really worrying about what they say?” Spike asked, incredulously. “They thought advertising a company is a legitimate talent.” “Besides,” Twilight said. “Do you three even like Diamond Tiara?” “No,” they answered at the same time. “Then, you shouldn’t take her words with any seriousness,” Twilight said. “It’s okay to be kind to her, but, if she’s not saying kind things to you, don’t listen to them. If she does put in the effort to be kind to you girls and you do grow to like her, that’s okay. But, for now, you should focus on the ones who do care about you and the ones you care about in return.” “If she keeps giving you trouble,” Spike said. “Ignore her and let her own ego be her undoing.” “Yeah, that’s a good idea,” Scootaloo smiled. “Thanks, guys.” End of Chapter.