//------------------------------// // Chapter 13 - Spark which lights a fire // Story: Friendship: Reanimation // by ImaginaryCatnip //------------------------------// Chapter 13 - Spark which lights a fire ***Train*** A loud crashing sound resounded around the whole wagon while shaking it violently as the heavy train speed past the junction. Normally, the train wasn’t supposed to go this fast at night, but by issuing the royal order, the six mares and one dragon hoped to get to Los Pegasus quick enough to make up for the lost time. They were totally out of schedule and while Twilight was the one to usually go frantic about stuff like this, they all felt the pressure of their mission, especially Applejack. Still, everypony tried to preoccupy themselves and this was also true to both inhabitants of Golden Oak Library as countless books laid around them, both of their eyes scanning their content. “This is ridiculous! How are we supposed to find anything if nopony researched the whole subject of shortening the lifespan?!” Yelled Spike, frustration seeping out every fiber of his body. “Calm down Spike… I’m sure sooner or later, there will be something, the books never failed me before” Reassured him Twilight with confident smile but knew that there indeed was one subject they failed to explain and very recently. “I know Twi, but I swear, if I read about another way to attempt suicide by using magic of golemancy then I’m going to personally burn that book…” He began but was cut shortly “ You won’t burn any of those books!” nearly shouted at him Twilight, making him sit back at the ground. If looks could kill, he would already be dead because of the stare she gave him… he had forgotten how overprotective she could be about her precious books. “Sorry… I’m just angry and that last fit of returning memories added to my fears…” Upon saying those words Spike noticed that she visibly relaxed, concern replacing her earlier outburst. “Sorry for my outburst. Speaking of which… how are you feeling?” The lavender mare inquired softly, while coming closer and placing hoof on his scaly shoulder, showing her genuine sympathy. As far as Spike knew there was only one fit of memories but… she noticed him turning in his sleep while tears poured from his eyes and she knew enough about him to not mention it first. He will talk to her when he feels the need but… – Poor Spike… - She thought however, she never showed pity because it would only anger him. The dragon himself, gave her one long look, before issuing his reply, his green eyes avoiding her purple ones “I’m fine… since that one fit I have been feeling better.” A lie… but one because he didn’t want to worry her more. In his eyes, Twilight was already carrying too much so he simply wanted avoiding adding more to that invisible weight. “I see. Good then, let’s get back to reading!” her forced laughter resounded around the wagon as she went back to the book she left on her bed and once again resumed looking through it. Spike was about to do the same when she looked up at him with questioning eyes. “Speaking of reading… how come you understand all of those things?” She inquired and this only made the purple dragon to grin widely. He had forgotten that she still didn’t knew much about dragons. Moving closer, he sat on the edge of her bed his smile still present on his muzzle. “One would think that we would know everything about each other after living almost all of our years together” To this remark, the mare cocked her head while rising a curious eyebrow. She assumed there wasn’t anything she didn’t knew about Spike by this point. Seeing her expression, the number one assistant decided to continue. “Well Twi… seeing as you never actually researched dragons properly this time let me teach you something. Did you know that our memories are…” ***Los Pegasus*** The big city of Los Pegasus was certainly a sight to behold as its splendor rose from the very bottom of earth up to the clouds in the sky, standing mighty and tall above anything. The whole agglomeration was a joint effort between earth ponies, unicorns and pegasi and that’s why there were buildings made both of stone and clouds. As the train stopped with loud screech on the peron, the seven heroes came out of it and marveled at the sight before them, their eyes taking in the sigh of the city which awoke from its slumber with the first rays of Celestia’s sun. If all of Equestria wasn’t in peril, they would probably enjoy it for about a week or two… but this was mostly out of option. “Okay, Seeing as we have managed to make up for lost time with more to spare and there is no rift in this city or around it, I will go and try to find us a transport to Appleloosa so you all can…” Began Twilight Sparkle, but was silenced by Applejack raised hoof who grinned widely. “Now just a minute sugarcube! Ah know ya been doin’ everythin’ by ya self since the beginin’ but this time let me handle findin’ us a ride” This caught Twilight totally off guard as she wasn’t expecting Applejack to make a generous proposition like this so suddenly… but she just couldn’t agree to that. “Sorry Applejack, but I want everypony else to enjoy their time here… especially you.” She added gently, while eyeing her friend but the earth pony wasn’t going to yield “No can do. Ya and me both know ah won’t be able to enjoy free time when mah family can be in danger. Just enjoy yer free time! See ya’ll before evenin’ here” To this, even the alicorn couldn’t argue and could only watch the earth pony trot away, leaving others. – Guess, she just needs to preoccupy herself – Thought Twilight and looked at the remaining mares and one dragon. “Okay everypony, you heard Applejack. We meet here at…” before she could finish, Rainbow Dash flew away with Fluttershy up to the clouds and Rarity began to gallop somewhere… probably a fashion center or something like that. – Why does everypony keep interrupting me! Strangely, all that remained was Pinkie, who looked at her friends leaving and then at the hard stone ground, sadness on her muzzle an emotion which was so uncommon to her that both Spike and Twilight looked at each other in question. “You…okay Pinkie?” Inquired the lavender mare softly but then Pinkie jumped up high and next to her muzzle, startling her. “Okay? OKAY?!” She shouted, her look moving frantically from side to side as if searching for something “I’m NOT okay! We all should be having fun together but they all just left!” She yelled, as she flopped on the ground her mane deflated as if somepony sucked the air out of it. Exchanging silent glances between them in wordless conversation, both the dragon and alicorn knew what needed to be done. Truth be told, they would rather go to library and maybe do some research… but they couldn’t simply leave Pinkie like that. Moving closer to the defeated mare, Spike got on all fours and then lowered his head down to the ground. “Uh…listen Pinkie… why don’t we three…uh… go and have some… fun?” As soon as the last world left his muzzle, the pink mare shoot up again, eyes sparkling with happiness, mane restored as if somepony feed her too much sugar. “Really? You would do that for me?” She asked, looking intently at Twilight who couldn’t help and just smile. “Of course Pinkie, what are friends for?” She replied, while analyzing the idea in her head – Some fun might not be so bad… maybe it will take Spike’s thoughts off those terrible things and we can research everything later. Yep, that would work great – She thought to herself while looking at Spike who nodded with silent approval of the idea. “So Pinkie? Where do you think we should go and have fun?” She asked and the earth pony beamed once again. “Oh I have just a place! It was all over news and posters and it is really, really, really, really, really big and they even have…” She began rambling, while moving towards the mentioned place, her friends on her tail. Because they were behind her and busy exchanging worried glances they didn’t notice one thing… a wide jester smile which adorned Pinkie’s muzzle and slightly crazed look in blue eyes – Perfect… everything is going according to plan- She thought to herself and quickened her pace. ***Somewhere in Los Pegasus*** Inside the many buildings not everything was going as planned, especially for poor Applejack who took it upon herself to find a way to Applelosa. It didn’t come as surprise that the first place she decided to visit was a travel center but one after another refused the request outright… something was happening in Applelosa and that alone made her more demanding over time. Standing in another travel center, she eyed angrily one of its workers who shifted nervously under her gaze “I’m sorry miss, but there is nothing I can do, there has been some disturbance in Appleloosa and all transport there is stopped until further notice” Once again told her the blue colored stallion with pink mane as he scratched his head with his hoof. This, however still didn’t go through the stubborn earth pony’s head. “But ah need to get there! Ah told ya that…” She began to explain, trying this time to be a little less desperate, however the stallion used that to regain his confidence. “I’m sorry but no means no, boss orders.” He concluded and returned to work on some papers which piled up at his desk… a lot of those being the letters of complaining about current lack of services. “And where is ya boss?” Inquired Applejack, not giving up. If she could reason with somepony higher, it would solve the problem… - Ah should take that royal letter from Twilight – She bashed herself mentally. It was true that they were not going to overuse it but with events looking like this, they might not have a choice… still, she wasn’t going to go back on her word. She promised she will find a way across and she never broke promises like those. The earth pony before her however wasn’t going to be helpful, cutting out her only way of further negotiations “He is in Vanhoover visiting his family. Heard something bad went down there recently” came his reply which frustrated Applejack… they were in Vanhoover yesterday! Still, she wasn’t going to overreact or make a scene. “Tell ah about it… is there really nothing’ ya can do?” She inquired but already knew that it was a lost battle. “I’m sorry” Sighing heavily, she bid farewell to the stallion and exited the building. Outside, the city air filled her nostrils making her cough a little and loud voices of many ponies around made her head hurt. Applejack missed the fresh air of Sweet Apple Acres and its calm atmosphere… Thinking of home, she was sure that Granny Smith could offer her some advice about what to do In this situation, but she had no way of contacting her right now. Flopping down she sighed again. “Ah shucks, now what?” Just as those words left her mouth some paper was given to her which she subconsciously took. Gazing at it while blinking, she lifter her eyes to see a green unicorn which distributed leaflets… the art of giving them away so perfected that everypony took them before registering what they were doing - That must be hard work, thankfully there is no rain – she thought to herself and looked at the piece of paper in her hooves… and by sheer luck it might just have become solution to her problems “hmm…maybe…” ***Amusement park*** In the very center of Los Pegasus, situated in big area, was one special and magical place which provided joy for countless ponies, both visitors and inhabitants of the city. High rails of many roller coasters, spooky looking haunted houses, Ferris wheel , countless carousels in different themes, dark rides, water rides and so much more than anypony would be able to enjoy during one whole day. In the middle of all of it, stood pair consisting of purple dragon and the alicorn of the same color, their faces looking around frantically “Do you see her anywhere Spike?” Inquired Twilight but already knew that it was hopeless… Pinkie vanished as soon as they entered the area and was not seen since, much to her friends worries. “No… but it is Pinkie, she is probably going around the place having the time of her life.” Replied Spike his eyes ogling the big roller coaster before him, sending shivers down his spine…for he never was in a place like this. Truth be told, it was one of his dreams when he was younger. Looking around her, Twilight also noticed many wonders which surrounded them, unable to express her thoughts. She did read about big amusement parks but it was different to experience it all with her own senses. The happy music playing in the background, the smell of sweets, the overflowing feeling of fun… it was everywhere. Shifting her gaze back to Spike she wondered what should they do about the whole situation they found themselves in. Thankfully her number one assistant had a solution “W-well… seeing as we are here and all… W-why don’t we e-enjoy our time?” He asked while stuttering slightly. – No matter how one looks at it…it is going to look like a date – He thought, the last words making his blood boil. He was pretty sure Twilight won’t think of it this way, but he still will enjoy it…if she agreed that is. Unaware to him, Twilight’s own heart skipped a beat, for she too thought of the very same thing. – He probably wants to have some fun around the place… that’s all - Still, she wasn’t going to waste the opportunity like this “O-okay. And who knows, maybe Pinkie will pop up along the way” She added, trying to sound as calm as possible, while at the same time she hoped that Pinkie won’t show up anytime soon. “So… why don’t we go up there?” She proposed while pointing with her hoof at the big roller coaster that Spike was looking at mere seconds ago. “Uh… you sure?” He asked while uncertain. He wasn’t scarred of high velocities or being up high but… this was a roller coaster after all, it’s purpose was to make everypony scream. “It looks fun” She answered his question and began to trot in the direction of this attraction “Come on Spike!” She yelled back and he couldn’t help but smile to this before following her. Thankfully, since it was very early in the morning the line wasn’t long for many ponies usually came to amusements park much more later. Soon, they boarded the wagon in the front and it slowly started do ascend some time later. Looking at each other, both of their eyes mirrored nervousness and excitement they felt about the whole experience… still, long ride up usually served to calm everypony before… “Waaaaah!!!” They screamed almost at the same time as the whole line of small vehicles suddenly went down the rails with extreme velocity. Spike could feel his stomach tightening and could only be thankful that they didn’t had too big breakfast in the morning. Looking at Twilight he saw her smiling from ear to ear like a young filly which made him laugh out loud, his sharp fangs showing. This action made the mare look at him and shout something but in the whole ruckus and due to the air pressure those words were muffed. It was one of the best rides of their time…their eyes communicated this message between them, however as soon as they looked forward once again they gulped. What awaited them were many loops and corkscrews...a lot of them. – Sweet Celestia… - Thought Spike, eyes widening with horror as the hellish experience began, throwing them upside down and in every direction, his own screams escaping his throat, mixing with those of Twilight’s. Some time later, while exiting the whole attraction on trembling legs, the pair looked at each other, eyes still spinning from the whole experience. “T-that was…” began the lavender mare but didn’t finish as she had to lean on Spike for support or she would fall down to the ground. The dragon however was doing a little better job as staying on his own talons. “Why don’t we… eat something?” He proposed, spotting a small open café nearby and before the mare could utter any words he led her there. As they made their way towards it, Spike couldn’t help but take notice how pleasant it felt to walk like this, side by side, her leaning on him. The whole thought process sent blush across his muzzle but thankfully Twilight was still too shocked to notice. Seating her down and making sure she won’t fall, he went towards the counter where a young cream colored pegasus was serving her customers. Upon noticing the dragon she flinched a little, since it wasn’t common sight to see his kind but his words quickly calmed her down. “Two ice-creams, one daisy sandwich and…” he began his order which she quickly noted down with high level of proficiency. Upon paying, he made his way back towards Twilight, noticing that she regained her senses. Setting down the food, he took a seat across from her, delighted to finally sit down. “So? How did you enjoy it?” He asked to start the conversation while admiring her features…which he did a lot recently. “No books can ever describe that!” She said loudly, her eyes sparkling with stars as she bit down on her sandwich, delighted smile on her muzzle… she really was hungry after that ride. “I’m glad… and the photo will make a nice addition to our album” He said, which made her cast a curious glance at him “What photo?” Smiling widely, he showed her what he was talking about. It wasn’t rare for roller coasters to have cameras installed to catch funny faces of those who rode them and he was sure to get some souvenir. As Twilight scanned the little photography, an immense blush crept on her face. There, she was to the left, her mouth open from screaming and eyes wide from horror along Spike who adorned similar face… however what was the cause of her red face was the fact that she had her hooves around his scaly neck, hugging him tightly. “I…uh…this…” she began to explain but found no words which could describe what she felt as the dragon laughed out loud at her embarrassment. – I have to get rid of it…- She thought to herself, frantically thinking of possibility of what would happen if somepony saw it it. The duo enjoyed their meal for some more time, but all the good things come to an end and they soon decided to explore the amusement park some more. “Okay since I picked the last attraction it is your turn now” proposed kindly Twilight, while hoping to grab the photo with her magic but the dragon wasn’t going to let her get rid of it, as he clearly saw through her attempt. “Well…I think I have something…” he began which got the alicorn curious as she cocked her head to the side. However his next words made her heart tremble “…how about a haunted house?” “I-I don’t know Spike…” She began to quickly opt against the idea but he wouldn’t let her decline “You aren’t scared are you?” He inquired which got him annoyed look from her “Of course I’m not scared. Ghosts are beings that don’t exist scientifically. There is no way I would ever be scared of something like that!” She huffed but Spike knew better, having lived with her for his whole life. It was true that Twilight never got scared upon seeing some scary doll or upon hearing some story, but… she was always getting frightened of other things like sudden appearance of something with loud sound or little touch of objects which could be spiders… and he found just right place in this amusement park to make her scream a little. “Then let’s go!” He added with mischievous smile and led her towards the ominous looking attraction which resembled a dark cave. The name above it said ‘the cave of horrors’, not the best name, but it was usually a normal looking attraction that could frighten you the most. Going inside, they soon found themselves in the dark as the doors shut behind them. It was so dark that Twilight couldn’t see more than one meter before her. “Spike?” She called out and soon felt something touch her left side gently. “There you are, I thought you left me in here…” She began but then Spike’s voice cut her in “Uh…Twilight? I’m here.” With this he touched her right foreleg, making her move her eyes to what was on the left and… “AAAHH!!!” She screamed loudly, jumping into dragon’s arms as she got scared by what looked to be a big insect. Catching her and hugging tightly, Spike couldn’t help himself “I thought you didn’t get scared?” He asked, wide smile hidden in darkness as he felt her trembling. “I-I…” She began to say but didn’t finish and simply snuggled closer to him “just… get me through this” the comfort of his strong arms enveloping her body being too pleasant to resist. Even when scared, her mind was as sharp as ever – I-I can cuddle to him like this.- She thought to herself, as the idea seemed to be too good to pass. She was sure she should be ashamed of herself acting like this… but she wanted it and couldn’t resist this simple need. The duo continued through the darkness, screaming time after time but no matter how scary it got… they were together in here, their hearts enjoying the warmth of one another as their bond helped them to move towards the exit. Back outside, Twilight was sure to let go of Spike because she didn’t want to be more embarrassed today… a cute photo and some time together was enough and she couldn’t possibly hope for more right now. There was however one question still nagging at her –What do I really feel for him? - Stretching his wings, the purple dragon looked around, pleasant smile on his face as the sun was high in the sky and amusement park seemed to fill with more ponies now. “So? How did you enjoy this attraction?” He asked grinning… and Twilight knew that soon he would be mocking her if she didn’t come clean about her fear. Taking deep breath, the alicorn gathered her resolve and finally replied “I was…scared.” She might have been the element of magic, princess, she might have stood up to Sombra and Discord… but it was all true, as the attraction scared her a lot. “Sorry for clinging like that to you…” She added in quiet voice while looking to the side and this response made the dragon blush “Uh…I don’t mind.” Scratching the back of his head, he looked around frantically and then saw it… it was before his eyes, the one thing that was sure to get his mind off things and to impress her – Wait...did I thought of impressing her? – popped up a question in his mind but he shoved it aside… THAT awaited him. Making his way forward, he saw the object he wanted…it came closer with every step “Spike?” he heard her call behind him but didn’t turn around. “You know Twi… since I got bigger I often wondered… how much stronger did I got?” He said, and following his gaze Twilight finally understood what he meant by this, as her purple eyes landed on High Striker. “You can’t be serious…” she began but there was no stopping her purple dragon assistant and they soon found themselves before the contraption. “Oh, a dragon! Welcome lad, care to test your strength against my machine?” Asked the crimson pony near it, while holding a heavy hammer in his mouth. “If you win, you can get a prize for your lovely mate! First try on the house!” He added, which caused Twilight to go red in face, Spike however was too mesmerized by the whole device to notice… a typical male you might say. He already knew that the stallion wanted to make his stand more popular… and what better way to do it than get a real dragon to play? Still, if both of them could have what they wanted then why not? Grabbing the hammer he looked cockily at the dude “Your on!” And without further ado swung the hammer down, smashing with all of his might. Sufficient to say, the little metal weight went up so high and so fast that it nearly ripped the bell at the top, as loud sound echoed around… it didn’t take long for other ponies to gather around and cheer for him. “Oh my, that was amazing! Here you go lad, as promised! Now…who’s next up to challenge?! Who has the strength to match the dragon?!” shouted the stallion, while handling Spike a plush toy of white bearded pony dressed in blue tiara adorned with small bells and similar colored cape – Star Swirl the Bearded plush toy…? Really…? – The dragon thought to himself but nonetheless accepting the gift. “That was amazing Spike!” Complimented him Twilight, which made him go red in face. Looking first at the plushie and then at her, he smiled widely. “Here you go!” with that Spike handled her the toy which made the lavender alicorn widen her eyes “R-really?” she said softly with the smile, as she took the present, her heart going so fast that she was afraid she might get a heart attack. Nonetheless, she hugged the dragon tightly, happiness overflowing from her as small tears began to form in the corner of her eyes… she was just so… thankful for the gesture because she never got anything like that in her life unless it was her birthday. Unfortunately, the precious moment was interrupted by a well known voice “Well, well, well, look what we have here. A rival in field of magic and her dragon assistant, flirting so shamelessly in the open.” Said the blue mare with silver mane and tail as stood beside her wagon which this time had big gold letters above it spelling ‘Madame Trixie, the greatest fortune teller’. Upon noticing her, Twilight moved away from Spike, red in face. “T-trixie? W-we…it’s not like that!” She quickly began rambling but was cut short by the blue unicorn. “Do not lie to the great and all knowing madame Trixie, I can see right through you with my crystal ball!” As if to make her point she levitated the orb made of glass beside her, while suspiciously eyeing Twilight, envy clear in her eyes. She might have learned her lesson during the whole alicorn amulet incident but that didn’t mean she was going to acknowledge Twilight as being better than her in magic. However, the lavender mare scoffed and made her way forward “I tell you it is not like that! Come on Spike… let’s find another attraction to enjoy.” She said, angry that the mare ruined so beautiful moment between her and the purple dragon. As soon as they bypassed the her, the blue unicorn turned towards them, anger in her eyes as she whispered to herself. “No one dares to lie to great Trixie, no one” with this, her horn began to glow and little wind speed up, taking the plushie out of Twilight grasp as it landed inside the boat in one of the attractions. Panicking, the duo quickly went after it, for it was a very important item for both of them. Grabbing the toy, Spike handed it once again to Twilight “Whew… you need to look out a little with it” He said, while grinning at her red face. “S-sorry.” She apologized and then, the boat started to move. “Uh…Spike?” She asked, while averting her eyes from Star Swirl the Bearded plushie towards dragon and found him starring mouth agape at the sign above. Following his gaze she found out what got him so shocked… and joined him in this activity when she read the sign ‘Love tunnel’ as they entered it, the boat swimming slowly inside… ***???*** Inside the darkness a pair of curious eyes looked at the screen, while a snarl escaped the creature lips. “Why are you torturing me by watching this?” It asked itself with angry tone and soon, the eyes shifted in place and another voice resounded from within “It is important for the plan… besides weren’t you enjoying it for some time now?” the mocking one asked as he sat more comfortably, pawns floating around its head. “I see you two bickering as always” Resounded new voice, hissing tone accompanied by another shift of eyes as the whole form began to change a little, no longer shapeless like a black cloud but becoming more solid as if made from black metal. “And when did you pop out?” Inquired the angry one, his tone demanding answers in forceful way but the mocked one stopped him there. “Don’t bother… he will only lie to you, he always does. Can’t we all continue to watch in silence? I’m really interested what might happen next…” The mocked one resounded and silenced the others. The game continued… the pieces were yet again rearranging themselves. Not much longer until despair will overwhelm the thief. “Soon... my precious little rule breaker… soon” It whispered as eyes fixed themselves on the dragon in the screen, a growl escaping its mouth from its nearly formed throat. ***Amusement park*** Deep inside the dim tunnel, a small white boat lazily floated on the water, illuminated by pink light from many hearts which floated around with magic. The soft music added to the whole atmosphere, however, the romantic moment was resulting in very awkward moment between both Spike and Twilight as they sat side by side, unable to look at one another, the purple mare clutching tightly the plush doll. – S-say something – Spike urged himself but no words came as he was too embarrassed to even find his voice. “W-well…that’s… unexpected.” Quietly whispered Twilight, as she felt the closeness of her dragon, her thoughts swirling around like a vortex. “Y-yeah.” She heard him agree as they both continued to sit in heavy silence. Inside her head, Twilight was having a battle with her own feelings… this situation was something she couldn’t even dream off but her beating heart paralyzed her whole body. It was all a new experience for the lavender alicorn. And I still don’t know what I feel… - Just as she was thinking that, many memories began to fly before her eyes… of their childhood which they spent always together, of his caring tenderly for her every single day… but not only past was there and soon, new memories which they made recently resurfaced. Their hug in the library, his closeness, the feeling of his scales on her fur, the breath in his chest and loud beating of his heart. There was more… the many memories of stories, which showed her possibility and fears of being together haunted her… but this time she focused on possibilities, seeing as they were so pleasant… it was everything she hoped for right now. Looking down, she saw the plush doll and her heart fluttered and cheeks grew warmer… - He really cares for me and I… - words from Zecora flowing inside her ‘The feelings in you are now but a single spark, you need to let it grow before it burns out. When the flame will shine bright enough, you will then know if those feelings are true or your heart bluff’ Feeling her eyes becoming moist she finally got her answer… it was always there, but she feared to acknowledge it. Right now, it all became clear as she looked up at him, finally deciding that spark indeed turned into a bright flame. Next to her, a certain dragon also had similar battle with his own feelings, as he remembered many times she helped him out from the very first day he was hatched. After the return from the void it all had changed… his crush on Rarity no longer there, replaced by new found feelings to the lavender mare… he had them, it was never denied by him but was afraid to let them take over. Scenarios of possibilities in which she rejected him chilled him to the bone… but those feelings grew with each day, no matter how much he tried to shove them aside. The feeling of her fur on his scales when they hugged, the smell of lavender which he loved so much… she was perfect in his eyes, she was everything he could hope for and he never wanted to even think of leaving her alone. – I…might not be good enough for her… but I know what I feel and I… - Ran his thoughts as he noticed that she looked at him, so he turned his own emerald colored eyes to deeply look into her purple ones. I care about you, more than a friend. – They both whispered in their hearts, as warmth enveloped them, the world seemed to not exist anymore, all that mattered were the two of them, on this boat, inside this dark tunnel. Slowly, their heads began to move closer, without them realizing it but before it could become anything significant and obvious, a bright light shone down on them, the rays of setting sun blinding both, breaking their trance instantly. “W-whew… that took long!” Laughed Spike nervously, as they came to a stop and exited the boat quickly – BUCK IT ALL! – He screamed in his mind, but was somewhat relieved. Cheesy as the situation might have been, he wanted to kiss Twilight seconds ago and that could result in a lot of things, a slap to the cheek being the most certain possibility in his opinion. Having similar thoughts, but not as violent, Twilight masked her own disappointment as she exited after him. -What was I thinking?!- She screamed in her head while welcoming the pleasant feel of solid ground under her hooves. “The sun is setting… we should go to the meeting place.” She commanded and began to trot trying to forget what she was about to do as quickly as possible – Thankfully he didn’t notice anything! As Spike matched her side, she turned her head to look at him “Thank you for today Spike… I had really great time.” She gave a genuine smile upon seeing her assistant blush madly “I-I did to. Maybe we can repeat it all again after we save Equestria” As laughter resounded between them, they soon exited the amusement park “I would like to repeat all of that!” Squealed happily Twilight, hope filling her heart… a promise of next date being enough to lift her spirit up from earlier disappointment. However, the dragon being as witty as always, couldn’t help himself but joke a little “Even the love tunnel?” He asked, smug smile adorning his muzzle upon seeing Twilight blush “You know what I mean!” She yelled and quickened their pace but in her heart she added – Especially the love tunnel! ***Los Pegasus – Meeting place*** As the sun nearly set down, Pinkie was happily moving around other mares. “Come on, tell us Applejack!” She heard Rainbow Dash issue her question for what seemed to be hundredth time but the farm mare stayed stubborn while still grinning. “No can do! Ah will make it a surprise!” She said, while moving in place from leg to leg. Truth be told, everypony was curious about their mysterious transport which she spoke off… still, Fluttershy wasn’t a type to inquire and Rarity, being a lady-like pony wasn’t one to ask this many times. “Wait until we all get ’ere and ya’ll see!” Once again replied mysteriously Applejack, unable to hide her own excitement. “Speaking of which, where is Twilight and Spike? It is unusual of them to be late” Inquired Rarity as she sat comfortably on the bench, various luggage around her… most of her precious baggage was lost along the way but she managed to get most important necessities, especially her cosmetics. Of course she added a lot in there since Los Pegasus was famous for its products. As soon as the question left from the white unicorn lips Spike’s voice called through to them “Sorry we are late!” With that, the duo landed gracefully in the middle, Twilight still clutching her doll firmly, trying hard to not let it go anywhere the second time. She regretted not having her saddle bags with her as princess flying around with plushie was bound to be one strange sight. “Finally! What took you so long?” Commented Rainbow Dash who couldn’t wait to finally move out forward. “And what’s with the strange doll?” Asked Rarity, her eye of designer critically looking at the clothes it wore… it was definitely nothing she would make or even use but to her question, Twilight only clutched it tighter to her chest “It’s a gift from Spike and I like it” she said, maybe a little too harshly but she was a little offended by Rarity’s words and tone she used because calling her present ‘strange’ wasn’t what she wanted to hear. Thankfully, Pinkie was there to diffuse the tension which arose between the two. “I’m sure you do, it looks cute!” Flashback Inside the amusement park, a pink mare was shadowing the purple duo as they enjoyed themselves, waiting just for the right moment… it looked good but they obviously needed a buck in the right direction… and she had just the thing. She had worked hard on it those last days and it was all complete now. With her blue eyes she scanned the area after both of them went into the haunted cave and smiled widely upon noticing what was near the exit from it. – Perfect – She thought and moved closer to High Striker stand which didn’t seem to catch much attention. “HI!” She greeted, startling the pony who nearly lost his hammer “Wha…? Oh welcome miss, do you want to test your strength?” He asked dully, obviously expecting her to decline the offer, but his boss told him to ask anypony who came close. “Well… I might, but I have better idea and it will be more fun!” And with that, she proceeded to explain her plan to the stallion. It was simple… she told him that soon, a purple dragon will come to him to test his strength. She wanted him to do it on the house, paying him in advance and gave him the present he was supposed to give the winner. The little plushie of Star Swirl the Bearded was hand made by her… obviously, there was no way somepony would even make a doll like that in the first place! Still, she doubted that either Spike or Twilight would question its origins. After the heated exchange she hid again and watched the whole spectacle unfold before her, while grinning… still, her time ran short so she needed to go out of here as soon as possible or it will be ruined by herself later… besides Pinkie wanted to enjoy everything in this amazing place! End Flashback As Pinkie blinked, she looked around puzzled. She must have spaced again thinking of something, whatever that was. Shaking her head she looked at her friends who made their way through busy street with Applejack in the lead. “So how far is it?” She questioned while bouncing happily near Applejack matching her level. “Just around this corner Pinkie!” replied the earth mare and indeed just as they turned they came to open space with sight that left them with open mouths. “You serious?” Rarity was first to ask, while ogling what was before them. However before she could get her answer Rainbow Dash shouted loudly. “So…AWESOME!” Indeed the sight before them could be described as such, as big blimp floated above the field with three pegasi tending to it, checking if everything was in order. Balloons were common sight in Equestria and even Spike and Twilight owned one, but this was something completely different. Confident smile on her muzzle, Applejack turned towards her friends and admired their expressions, feeling extremely proud of her accomplishment “Of course ah serious! This way we can be there really fast!” She said and before she could anything more Twilight pulled her into big hug. “Great job Applejack! This way we can really get ahead of schedule!” Complimented her friend the lavender alicorn… Equestria in danger or not, it seemed to be her best day ever because she couldn’t wait to see the technological marvel for herself, especially from the inside! “This is going to be so nice to fly up high right Fluttershy?” Asked Pinkie Pie the butter colored pegasus, who trembled visibly at the sight before her. It was a well known fact that she didn’t like to fly “Um…yes, nice” she replied but next thing she knew, she was running behind everypony else as Twilight commanded loudly to all of them “Come on everypony… let’s continue forward to Appleloosa!”