//------------------------------// // Chapter 4: Trending Waters // Story: The Knights of Luna: Turtle Power // by Swift Heart //------------------------------// Chapter 4: Trending Waters The arena they once had been kept prisoners in they now sat in as spectators in the stands and the three girls where stretching out in preparation for training. Luna walked over to a large canvas covered thing and revealed it…it looked like the tilt-a-whirl from fun land…however Swifty looked apprehensive upon it unveiling… “Swift Heart we shall start with dizz-a-tron” Luna stated rather calmly “And we shall put the setting on the highest levels this time as punishment for using a potion without a good reason and don’t give me the excuse ‘he was being mean’ it doesn’t matter!” She scolded “C…can’t we talk about this” Swifty said sulking as she was dragged by Luna’s magical aura over to the device and slide into the small belted area where she was automatically locked in. Swift Heart’s ears flattened against her head as she bit her bottom lip… Luna smirked almost evilly “Nope” She pulled the level as the machine began spinning the filly in a circle at an alarming speed…Luna kept her grip on the lever… “Dude…why can’t our training be that fun…” Mikey complained as he watched the tilt-a-whirl in action, he chuckled as he watched Swifty spin around and around… Raphael grumbled “I don’t think this is for fun” He said growling as the soft female voice left his mouth…whatever happened to that brat he was going to cheer happily… “Release!” Luna shouted sending the filly hurling into the air around and around till her wings spread wide opened eyes wide and determined as she fell straight down before straightening herself out and soaring towards Luna at high speed making a full stop in front of the Princess. “0.04 second….we need to get that timing better on the medium level your time is 0.02 seconds…” Luna commented offhandedly “Your landed was sloppy you came to skidding to halt instead of a full stop…very sloppy today but I know you’ll do better” Luna said turning to the other two girls. Swift Heart’s gaze turned to the ground “I’m sorry…” she said as her wings drooped slightly and her ears folded back sadly “I’ll perfect it next time your highness” Well that was harsh, Raph blinked as he watch Luna comment on Swifty’s landing….that was harsh…she looked like a beaten dog without anymore fight left in her… “YOU WERE AWESOME SWIFTY!!! WHOOHOO!” Raph jumped suddenly as Mikey began shouting and cheering for her “I BEST LANDING EVER!” Mikey shouted again smiling brightly Swifty blinked and looked at the stand, how could he cheer like that? She had failed! She messed up! She made Luna disappointed! However a tiny smile formed on her face, it was…nice having someone cheer like that…even if it was her being cheered for… Luna secretly smirked this was such good material for her next teen romance novel, she chuckled almost evilly as she turned her gaze to Mona Lisa “Mona…as of late..you’ve been lacking in tact…don’t think for a moment Dinky didn’t explain to me your previous encounter with the turtle known as Slash…you allowed your anger to get the best of you…” She folded her hands behind her back “Also it has come to my attention…you lack a sense of mortality lately…you seem to believe yourself indestructible” Their was a crossness in her voice. “Well Luna…I am a dragon, my scales are thicker then the strongest steel, I think I’m pretty invincible…” Mona said smirking confidently pulling out her war hammer proudly twirling it like it was a baton. Luna’s evil smirk became wider as her horn lit up and the arena became a little darker “Then let us spare in a different environment shall we?” Confused the spectators looked up and gasped as dark clouds began forming over head and rain fell unto them. The Hamato clan plus Casey and April were now soaking wet and quite unhappy. “Duude! I already had a bath!” Casey complained looked rather unhappy as he grumbled Donnie on the other hand was looking confused “This…is not….possible! You…you can’t just make it rain!? Where did the clouds come from!? Their shouldn’t even be enough moisture in the air to make a rain storm this powerful!” he shouted “Um..Donnie maybe we should start believing in magic…I think we’ve seen enough proof” Leonardo said blinking in shock. He may not be a genus like his brother but he always believed he was opened minded enough to believe in the impossible… “Leo shut up…” Donatello grumbled looking miserable all wet…he cast a glance over to April and blushed…her shirt was clinging to her body….he gulped staring…something smacked the back of his head “ow!” He looked behind him and saw Master Splinter looking at him with disapproval in his eyes. Mona Lisa cringed as it began to rain…it was hard to blow fire in rain! She growled “I can take this!” she said confidently and charged at Luna. Luna sidestepped the charging dragon, grabbing her tail as she soared passed the Princess of the Night. In one fluid motion Luna gripped the dragon’s tail tightly and flipped Mona over on her back as she released Mona’s tail. “Again!” She commanded as Mona rose to her feet and swung her hammer at the Princess. “I don’t get why Princess Luna made it rain…” Mikey said confused cocking his head to the side as he scratched his chin “Not that I mind the extra shower” He commented but the confused look on his face spoke volumes. Casey smirked “Dude it’s soooo full metal alchemist! Roy Mustang is like the fire Alchemist and he’s totally bad ass but he can’t use fire in the rain so it totally like this. Mona can’t use fire in the rain” He crossed his arms after he finished explain “By the way the subbed was way better then the dubbed” The turtles collectively groaned throwing Casey dirty looks. Mona swung her hammer crosswise downward towards Luna. The Princess only smirked “Predictable my dear” She didn’t even bother casting a spell as she flapped her wings propelling upwards and flipping forwards as she landed behind Mona as the dragon swung back round in hopes to catch Luna off guard; however, the Princess only ducked under the swinging hammer while using her left wing outstretched to kicking Mona off her feet. The Princess the pulled out her sword and pointed it at Mona’s throat “If I had been an enemy you would not be alive. The war hammer requires one to respect it’s wielder vulnerability it is a weapon meant to protect the ones who stand behind it. You are the frontline that protects your sisters.” Luna lectured letting the dragoness up. She used to magic to dissipate the rain. Swift Heart grumbled and shook off all the water, her feathers, hair, and fur poof up making her look like a fluffy poodle. She frowned as she tried to brush down her fur and feathers “I just had my wings preened…they’ll lose their finish!” “Well…I guess it’s my turn?” Dinky said stepping forward dropping her shield, she had been the only one to not get wet. She stepped forward looking somewhat nervous as she pulled out her weapon “Okay…now Princess Luna always waits for others to attack…however waiting for her to make a move will be equally difficult…on the other hoof…” Dinky’s thoughts were scattered as she thought about her attack plan or there lack of…She took a defensive stance narrowing her eyes as she was torn between attacking or defending…. Luna sighed “Still Dinky you act with such indecision…a leader must take risks in order to protect those who follow them…if you don’t act quickly you may lose a member of your team…you may lose a sister. You need to start acting like a leader your lucky Swifty and Mona listen to you because if any pony else was serving under you…they would undermine your leadership!” Luna said sternly “You can’t predict everything only hope for the best” Biting her bottom lip Dinky took a deep breath and summoned her shield before charging, Luna stood her ground smirking. Dinky stopped short and jumped away from Luna holding her trident tightly “Okay…that smirk is a tell tale sign she is plotting something…..” She mumbled to herself… Leonardo’s eyes narrowed as he watched this pitiful fight…she was thinking to hard and not acting enough…if Dinky was the captain she should be ordering Mona and Swifty to flank Luna’s sides and distract the princess while she would take a direct root…it was painfully obvious that all the girls were out classed however this was a training exercise she should take advantage that her advisory wasn’t going to kill her….he rubbed a hand under his chin as he continued to watch… Splinter also watched, he understood why Luna wanted his sons to see this…she was trusting them…by showing their weaknesses…these girls have never seen real combat…Mona was overconfident with a strong sense of invulnerability….Dinky was indecisive…Swifty..he assumed he’d watch her fight next… Dinky was sent flying back skidding in the dirt “Oh Celestia’s mane!” She said twitching as she rubbed her sore cheek. She had tried dodging left only to make a last minute change and attempted to go right only to be smacked in the face with Luna’s wing…. Luna sighed “Dinky you have a brilliant mind, your loyal, and courageous…but you need to get your head in the game…learn to make a decision” She scolded lightly and turned to the last girl… “I waited until I knew you were no longer dizzy from the dizz-a-whirl” Luna stepped towards Swift Heart. “I decided not to give you any further hand capes then you already have” She took a fighting stance. Swifty nodded and closed her eyes, the little pegasus already knew she didn’t have a chance but she knew she could last a tiny bit longer then Mona and Dinky…she pulled out her saber and slid her shield unto her right forearm…her pouches fill with various powders and potions… Luna frowned, Swifty lacked self-confidence and self-importance…it was easy to throw her off the princess hated to do this but it was needed “Let’s see if you can do better with this practice then your first one…I’m very disappointed” and there it was the look that made Luna feel she had just kicked the foal’s puppy…. “I feel you’ve made no improvements in any of your specialized areas as well” Swifty was shaking now… Swift Heart was indeed shaking…Luna was right…how could she not be…Swifty hadn’t even conducted her regular maintenance on the lighting system…maybe something was wrong with it and that was why Luna was upset! It seemed to be working fine…maybe it was because Swifty couldn’t recreate a cloud machine? The Princess did say she wanted some clouds floating around…but without seeing a blue print…or even the machines of a weather machine…she was lost…what good was she? Luna sighed knowing the youngest was wondering what she had done so wrong now…The princess watched as the little filly gripped her sword as she attempted to get her head in the game…Luna closed her eyes for a moment “Swift Heart…” she murmured softly “How can I advance your training if you cannot pass your own mental barricades…” She walked over to Swift Heart and lightly tapped her shoulder “Your out” Swifty looked away with frowned as she was tapped out, she wouldn’t cry…crying was bad…no matter how much it hurt…never cry…the little filly took her place besides her sisters. The three girls stood before Luna in order of hight as they looked at the Princess. Their heads bowed and their facial expressions varied between them, Mona looking frustrated and angry, Dinky looking disappointed, and Swifty looking broken…. “Training is over…” Luna said simply with a frown, her horn lit up and a satchel appeared in a flash, “I maybe harsh with you…but you also need to remember…I only act as I do because I care…I pray one day you will each find the strength you need to carry on without me” she approached Mona and from the satchel pulled out a small bolt of purple fabric with lovely silver floral pattern on it “I have presents for each of you from my latest journey” She said handing Mona her gift with a tender smile. “Mona this silk is very delicate, however I know in the claws you wield only a masterpiece can be forged. Your passion shows in ever stitch of your needle, and the way you fight…never lose sight of those you love” Luna said petting Mona on the head. Luna turned to Dinky and pulled out a strange looking plant it was bright orange with blue leaves “Dinky I found this unusual plant during my trip you will plant it and learn everything about it before letting Swifty use any of it in her potion making.” She handed the plant to the young unicorn “Remember each flower blooms in each own time, and each one needs a different touch, some require tender soil while others thrive in rocky terrain…help this flower grow as you would your sisters” The Princess then turned to the youngest and pulled out an old book “It was a fortuitous bout of luck that I came across this book” She handed Swift Heart the book and watched as the young filly hugged it to her body, “This book is a survivor of the Crystal Empire…this a book of potions developed by the crystal ponies…potions that have been lost long ago during the Empire’s disappearance…Princess Cadance gives this book to you with her regards, learn well from it and revive these ancient potions to there former glory” The girls blinked for a moment before Dinky stepped forward “Wait a minute did you say….Princess Cadance?! The Princess Cadance!?” She asked excitedly her tail wagging as she smiled brightly at Luna. Luna nodded “The colony I happened upon was the remains of the Crystal Empire…the crystal heart survived and they are thriving…we came to a trade agreement as well so be prepared to start seeing new wares in the market my young wards” Mona squealed with joy “I totally can’t wait! Just imagine all the new stuff I can buy!” She was practically jumping “And just imagine all the money I can make! Selling my fabulous outfits and accessories!” she giggled and hugged Swift Heart and Dinky “And of course I’ll have my two favorite models to show off my best stuff” “Oh joy…being treated like a doll…the thing I love the most…Mona your going to have to get another model I quite” Dinky said glaring at the dragon with a frown and her ears folded back in irritation. Swifty looked at Mona with a pout “I’ll take payment in Apple Bloom’s famous apple fritters, cinnamon buns, Banana nut muffins, and I want a Mint vanilla smoothie with extra oats” She said bluntly glaring at Mona “Deal” Mona Lisa said patting Swifty’s head happily with chuckle “At least one of my little sisters wants to see me succeed” She stuck her tongue out at Dinky playfully. The spectators had left their seats to join the knights in the arena, “Whose Princess Cadance?” Leonardo asked scratching his head curiously. All this talk of knights and princesses got him slightly excited it was like their dungeons and mutants LARP game…only more real… “Princess Mi Amore Cadanza, other wise known as Princess Cadance ruled the Crystal Empire along with her Husband Prince Shinning Armor…” Swift Heart began her cheeks took on a reddish hue “She is known as the Princess of Love, protector of the Crystal Empire…” Mona then spoke up “I heard that during her wedding she used the power of her love to send the evil invading Canterlot flying away!” “It was evil changelings that invaded Canterlot…I should know I was there! Princess Cadance used her love to give Shinning Armor the power to repel them out of Canterlot!” Dinky said excitedly with a smile “And not to mention how gorgeous she is!” Mona giggled “Or how hot Shinning Armor is!” “It’s really romantic…the Captain of the guards and the Princess of love” Swifty said dreamily with starry eyes Splinter chuckled he couldn’t help but wonder if Miwa hadn’t been raised by Shredder…if she could have turned out like these girls…or even like April…with a sigh he spoke “It is late…my sons, April, Casey it is time we leave…however we shall return tomorrow it would be nice for my sons to train with others warriors” Mikey’s eyes lit up “Were coming back tomorrow! Awesome! Hey Swifty maybe you and I can spare together” He said attempting to wiggle an eyebrow with a smirk on his face as he tried to sound cool. Swift Heart blinked “Are you…always this excited about training?” She questioned raising an eyebrow at the strange behavior the turtle presented towards her… Donnie felt like slapping his forehead, he reached over and grabbed Mikey and started dragging him away “Don’t speak…just keep walking little brother” he said rolling his eyes “Trust me…” xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx A few days had passed since then, the two groups were still testing the waters and learning more about each other. Today the boys were heading down to small hamlet as part of their new routine and training exercise it added a new dynamic their training. The boys exited the tunnel that lead to Settlement Town, Michelangelo was the most excited of his brothers to be down here “Hey guys…is it just me…or is there a breeze?” Mikey blinked cocking his head to the side as he felt a tiny breeze blowing through the air. Donatello blinked as he stood next to his brother “Yeah…I feel it too…there is a breeze” he looked confused “But the question is why? Why make a breeze?” these ponies were strange in his opinion… Leonardo shrugged “I dunno…maybe they just thought it was relaxing? I mean think about it…they already have a sun…or something sun-like so why not throw in a breeze?” He suggested scratching his head as he scanned the small village “It does feel nice” he commented offhandedly. Raphael growled “Can we just get this over with, the sooner we’re done with this training stuff we can hit the surface” The emerald eyed turtle was still had not come to fully trust the girls or the ponies in generally he thought they were all too cuties cute…and weak…sure he liked annoying most of them…but he still wasn’t too keen on trusting them… The turtles made their way down to the village, as they approached the Equins seemed to be preparing for something they were rushing about and…they seemed to be trying to keep as quite as mice…The boys noticed a small group of pagasi near a glowing portal softly flapping their wings creating the gentle breeze. The lead pegasus was one they knew personally…. “So…their making wind?” Mikey asked blinked as he slowly drifted over to where his beloved Swifty was… Raph smirked “At least their not break wind” He chuckled as did his remaining two brothers “Might as well find out what’s up” he started heading over three breeze making ponies. Mikey was the first over smiling brightly and ready to speak to the magenta colored filly “Hey Swifty! Are we training today? I totally can be your sparing partner” He said winking at her Said filly looked at the boys as she calmly flapped her wings “Sorry we can’t train today…Princess Luna discovered another survivor of Equis and they are moving here….she found the Breezies!” She said in a hushed tone. “The Freezies? OH! Are they like slushies makers or something?! Frozen treats are awesome!” Mikey exclaimed happily his little turtle tale practically wagging in anticipation. Swift Heart’s flapping suddenly became very erect and the breeze was starting to pick up “S…sluushisheS?! The breezies…as slushies?!” She began to panic, worry filling her eyes “I…I…I” She began to hyper ventilate “I can’t do this! I’m going to mess up and end up hurting them! I’ll ruin everything!” sweat dripped from her forehead… Donnie sighed slapping his hand to his forehead “Great…she doing that needless panicking thing again…” He pulled out a small toy hammer and twisted unto the end of his boa staff…something he added a few days ago. He then used said attachment to promptly hit Swifty on the head… “Ow! Why do you keep doing that?!” Swift Heart whined slightly rubbing her head looking rather hurt. “Because it seems the quickest way to calm you down” Donatello shot back with a slight glare, it amazed him…when she was mentally collected she could be a force to recon with; however, once she loses her calm and started doubting and panicking…she was a hot mess and easily defeated… Leonardo sighed rolling his eyes, Donnie while he didn’t share Swifty obvious crush on him, the purple terrapin had found a companion in which he could talk science stuff with and understand what he was actually talking about….they had a tentative friendship…at least that was what Leo called it, “Swifty what are Breezies?” He asked figuring she was calm enough to answer… “Breezies are the smallest cutest littles things you could ever lay your eyes! They are also very delicate and need a pony created breeze in order to use their magic” A new voice…a voice that sounded like Raph’s when he had been under that potion…The turtles turned and looked at Raph Raph blinked and looked back at his brothers holding up his hands “Hey that potion wore off! That totally wasn’t me this time!” He shouted his left eye twitching in annoyance as he spoke as he turned to the right direction of the new voice. Raphael’s eyes widen as his jaw dropped in shock at the vision of beauty standing before him “Uh….hi” He managed to get out. The other turtles turned as well blinking at this new pony, “You must be the turtles the girls have been telling me all about, I’m so happy to meet you” She greeted them. Her yellow fur and soft pink mane and tail that trailed behind her, shinning bright blue eyes, and a captivating shy smile “I’m Fluttershy” Mikey spoke “So…they don’t make frozen treats?” He asked blinking unaware of the now furious look of murder Raph was sending him. The mare giggled “Oh heavens no! Breezies…I suppose the best way to describe them would be similar to another creature from this world's mythology…there very similar to fairies” she briefly explained a small bit about the Breezies. Raphael stared at her, hung onto her every word…he heard of the hourglass figure…this was the first time he saw it…his heart he swore was pounding in his ears as the venus de milo talked about what ever these breezie things were…even her voice was perfect…who knew angels were real… “And so Dinky helped me create a small little place for them to live, oh it just so perfect! I just need one little thing left to make it perfect…but…I can’t find any pony to help me lift it” Fluttershy said frowning Raph nearly choked “I’ll help ya!” He said far too quickly, his brothers blinked in shock and looked at their normally hotheaded turtle “I can move whatever it is ya want…ya know thing to help the breezies” oh shell he sounded like a dork…he totally sounded like a dork….he was never going to live this down! Fluttershy smiled “REALLY?! Oh that’s so kind of you! There is this fallen moss covered log I want to move over to the new Breezie village,” She explained taking Raph’s hand and leading him away. Leo blinked “What just happened?” He was honestly confused, as he watched Raphael following the yellow pegasus away. “I think….Raph just developed his first crush” Donatello exclaimed “The flushed look on his face, the eagerness to help, the sudden drop in attitude…it’s a crush” the purple turtle confirmed in shock…. Mikey blinked “Dude…she is like old enough to be our mom…ain’t never gonna happen” he commented “She also married” Swift Heart said softly but no one seemed to hear her as they talked among themselves. She sweat dropped slightly as she continued to watch them discuss the issues of Raphie’s new crush….now she knew how Fluttershy felt when she was trying to say something important and no one was listening to her….oh well “Hey Turtles!” Dinky shouted as she ran over to them “I’m so excited about the Breezies! I saw them once before when I was living in Ponyvile! They were so cute and tiny!” She said smiling brightly Leonardo smiled brightly “Hey Dinky! So Fluttershy was telling us how you created a place for the Breezies, can I see it?” He asked curious as to what Dinky had created. He had seen her greenhouse so he was interested in how she would make a tiny village out of flowers and mushrooms or whatever she used… “Sure Leo! But you’ll have to wait the Breezies will be coming soon, and Fluttershy want me here to help her guide the Breezies to their new home.” Dinky smiled feeling pride in her work. She really was pleased with how the new Breezie village turned out. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Raphael heaved a heavy log unto his shell grunting slightly as he tried to steady it unto his back “Soo…this log is for…the Breezies to play with?” He question raising an eye as he followed Fluttershy. The yellow pony smiled “Yes! I figured the Breezies would enjoy playing with this and it’ll look just perfect in their new home” She gushed slightly with a tiny giggle that made Raph blush a deep crimson shade. “My home isn’t too far from here, I really appreciate your help Raphael.” She motioned for him to follow her. The hot tempered turtle followed the shy mare, his eyes focused more on her swaying tail…trailing up her back…he gulped. Raph quickly made his eyes focus on her head but all he was hearing was ‘blah, blah, blah, proper name place, blah, blah, plot device, more info’ “You can put the log down here” Fluttershy said pointing to a lovely little flower and fern looking village. The mare smiled as she looked at Dinky’s work, the young filly had taken a lot of inspiration from fairy tales to create this wonderful little place….it looked so peaceful she almost wished she could live their with the Breezies… Raph huffed as he heaved the stupid log over his shoulder and placed the log down where Fluttershy instructed him “So…uh….” damn it he was tongue tied! He needed to calm down, be cool, he wasn’t like Mikey and Donnie! He knew how to be smooth around a girl. Flashing his famous smirk at her “Anything else I can help you with Ms. Shy?” He asked feeling confident or at least attempting to make it seem he was… “Oh no! Thank you so much for your help” Fluttershy said softly “Wait here I just want to get something from my cottage” She said pointing to the small home that was a few feet away from the Breezie village. The mare had some cookies and thought the young teen would enjoy them as a reward for helping her. Without waiting for a reply Fluttershy quickly went inside her tiny home and quickly grabbed a cloth bag she had and filled it with the homemade cookies she had on hoof. Raph blinked, well this was unusual being thanked for doing a good job…he liked it…alot…especially since it made the pretty mare smile…he watched as she quickly went into the tiny cottage. Raphael took this chance to look around the area. The cottage was quint, lots of flowers, trees, and lots and lots of animals…he briefly wondered if Fluttershy was some short of animal hoarder…but she was far too caring and nice to be a hoarder…in fact Raph noticed many of these animals had been given medical attention…many of these critters had treated wounds…others showed obvious signs of abuse…Raph felt his stomach churn as he spotted a puppy with burn marks…what happened? Fluttershy came out holding the cookie bag she made, the mare’s smile dropped when she noticed Raph’s. “It’s horrible…I’ve never seen any creature willing to hurt something so innocent” Fluttershy said sadly handing the cookies to Raph before walking over to the puppy with burn marks. “When I first came to this dimension…I didn’t know what to do with myself…my special talent was caring for animals…it turned out even before I came to live here…Lyra, Bonbon, and Luna would occasionally bring these poor animals down here to take care of them…” Fluttershy scratched the puppy’s chin and giggled softly when it licked her face. “I couldn’t believe humans would hurt animals like this…it’s..unforgivable!” She said sounding very upset as she once again stood up turning to Raph “Why do humans hurt such innocent animals….I’ve never seen so many injured and sick animals in my life…” The way she spoke it almost sounded as if they had abused her directly and not the animals. “I couldn’t tell you…I had a pet once…a turtle…heh…ironic right? He was flushed down the sewer…” Raph said solemnly remember the night Slash left him…his pet…his best friend gone…a hand gently touched his shoulder making him jump in surprise. He looked at Fluttershy blushing “I can tell your a really kind person Raphael” She said smiling brightly at him, “The Breezies will be coming soon” xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Mikey’s eyes widen in wonder as tiny creatures even smaller then his own thumb began flying through the portal “wow….” He whispered softly as he the breezes fluttering in the pegasus made breeze. “Now be very careful…even the most errant of drafts could send them careening into danger” Swift Heart said softly flapping her wings gently as possible as she watched the Breezies fly by her. Dinky stepped forward “I’ll take you to your new home” She whispered to the Breezies only to receive a squeaky reply that only made the unicorn giggle before turning and leading the Breezies away. Donnie blinked “They were amazing, it was like something out of Gulliver’s Travels! Tiny people!” He said in a hushed but excited voice as he followed Dinky and Breezies simply fascinated by their seer tiny size. Swift Heart watched as he walked away and frowned softly, Donatello didn’t seem to reciprocate her feels or any form of affection. It seemed to her logical mind he didn’t even desire an acquaintanceship with her, the use of physical abuse upon her person would indicate he rather despised her in fact. She let out a gentle sigh as her wings continued to create the gentle breeze until the OK was sounded. The whole event was both teeming with excitement and tension in the air as everyone watched the breezies fly towards their new colony in Fluttershy’s backyard. Everyone was amazed by Dinky’s design and floral architect of the new Breezie home and many whispered as the the tiny fairies like creatures began landing and claiming the tiny mushroom homes that had been grown in as their new homes. Tiny cheers could be heard from within the tiny compound and many ponies and even a few turtles smiled at the sight. Dinky looked at Leo “I wanted to make this as close to their original home as possible, flowers and mushroom houses….I had to use quick growing potions to make this in time…but it was fun to make…the Breezies will responsible for expanding their own place from now on…” Dinky felt some pride swell in side of her. She had made this and everyone was enjoying it, she hoped this feeling could stay with her for a while… “It’s awesome Dinky, you did a good job” Leo sad smiling at her as he turned back to the Breezie home, to him it looked like a cross between a tiny mountain made of mushrooms and a mystic forest from a some vaguely familiar video game…miniture bamboo forest, miniature sakura trees….he blinked “How..did you make those tiny Sakura trees? And Bamboo forest…in fact…why does it look so….er…Japanese?” Dinky blushed and giggled nervously “Okay I admit…I used some magic to make a lot of the elements…I was kind of inspired by Ookami and Japanese gardening…I really like bonsai trees I even used a bonsai within the design…” Dinky explained her ears folded back against her head feeling slightly embarrassed by her confession “the mini bamboo forest and Sakura tree I used a shrinking spell…it’s still growing normally but…it’ll be…tiny, and the mushroom houses…they live in mushroom and well in the game their was a village of tiny people so..I took inspiration from that” The blue banded turtle stifled a laugh as he looked at the pale purple unicorn “I like it…never played Ookami…games are more Raph and Mikey’s thing…but I like the Japanese influence…it’s well pretty” He said scratching his chin as Dinky giggled and smiled happily. Raphael looked at the cookies Fluttershy had given him a blush dusting his face as he nibbled on one tasting the love and care that went into the sweet treat…cinnamon and sugar…a ginger snap. Raph normally wasn’t a turtle that liked sweets. Mikey was the family cook, sure sometimes he made horrible things but he also made some really damn good things! Like that one sweet treat that Raph really liked, the bitter sweet chocolate fudge brownies…Raph loved those…he’d gobble them up in a less then an hour…but now he had a new favorite…ginger snap cookies…made by Fluttershy…he savored another tender morsel of his new found favorite cookie… Mona smirked as she wavered through the crowd and spotted the hot head seemingly in a daze nibbling on cookies. The breezes were awesome and all but it was the after party she was looking forward too! She managed to get close to Raph, “damn, he must be in deep thought” she thought with a spark of mischief glowing in her eyes as she lifted her tail up and readied her hand. Raphael felt someone tap his shoulder, looking over his shoulder the turtle was sacked by a familiar tail and his ginger snaps were quickly removed from his hands “Hey! Grrrr!” he seethed glaring at the dragon that now had the cookies Fluttershy gave him “Give those back” he said sternly “So protective over cookie Raph? Did a girl give them to ya?” Mona teased weaving the bag around as Raph tried to grab it, damn it was good to be taller then everyone else! Damn it! It sucked to be so short! “What is your deal Godzilla!?” He shouted jumping up to grab his cookies. He thought about trying a flip and grab but she was so stinking tall he didn’t even know if he could jump over her head without a decent head start! “Cookies are for kids come on short stack we’re going to the after party!” Mona said keeping the cookies away from Raph as she threw an arm over his shoulder and dragged him off. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx The ‘after party’ all the turtles had been dragged to was of all places that could have been built their was a bar owned and ran by a surly old stallion with a nasty looking over bit and a creepy looking eye patch over his left eye. “You realize were fifteen right?” Donnie asked looking at the girl wondering why the shell they were even there in the first place. Swifty blinked for a moment “We’re legal…Equestrian law is implemented down here and fifteen is legal to drink…” The little pegasus turned to the bar keeper “Salty I want the usual Equine Guard Whiskey, and it better not be that American garbage you tried to pass me off like last time!” she hissed with her wings flared and feathers ruffled and a glare in her eyes. Mona spoke next “I’ll take a keg of that German beer you had me try last month” A smile on her face “And one for the shorty over here…unless he ain’t ready for the grown up stuff” she teased The red banded turtle growled “I can handle anything you throw my way! I’ll have what she’s having” He snapped twitching “Raph…I REALLY think this is a BAD I idea Master Splinter is gonna kill us if he finds out!” Leo said internally panicking about this whole situation and looking like a cornered mouse. He looked to Donnie for help, but the smartest turtle also looked like a cornered mouse… “What Master Splinter doesn’t know won’t get us punished beside dudes we’re doing exactly what he told us to do! Embracing another culture!” Mikey said with a smile, he totally didn’t want to look like a looser in front of Swfty! Gulping slightly he turned to the owner only known as Salty “Soo…uh…I’ll have what Swifty’s having” He said nervously Donatello was unsure, he had been curious about alcoholic beverages read up the side effects of too much consumption, but also the positives of certain beverages…. “I’ll take a glass of 1986 Sauvignin Blanc Lanzur with your famous cheese and herb soufflé as an entree” Dinky said simply before turning to Donnie “I don’t know why Mona is pressuring you guys to drink but you don’t have to it’s your choice. Would you like some water? This place has soda too” She offered trying to be kind Donnie blinked and glanced at Leo, both brothers seemed unsure even after Dinky’s encouraging words. Leo glanced at Dinky as Salty poured her a glass of red wine and gulped as his eyes turned to Mona and Raph whom both had there drinks, his eyes drifted to Mikey and Swifty….Mikey was looking at his glass curiously as Swifty drowned her glass. “Um do you have anything Japanese?” Leo asked curiously, he watched as Salty nodded and pulled out a bottle from behind him and poured a glass of clear liquid. Leo took the glass as he heard saki being mumbled from the barkeep. The last turtle to fall was Donnie “I’ll…have what my brother is having” he said pointing to Leo as Salty poured another glass of saki for the purple banded turtle. Mikey really hoped this tasted good! Spitting out a drink would only make him look stupid! He glanced at Swifty…damn she was downing that glass! He brought his own glass of whiskey to his lips and tilted his head back a bit…the burn hit him…it was drinking fire! His insides burned as the liquid flowed down his throat to his belly…he choked hard. His body was shaking from the sudden heat “I..it burns” He muttered “Ahhh” Swift Heart putting her half empty glass down on the bar, her cheeks were slightly red from the burning liquid “That’s the good stuff” She said…her voice sounded…different…. Mona cheered “Yay! Half pint and she dropped the southern accent!” She and Dinky high-fived each other smiling and laughing. Mona took a swig from her keg and looked at the turtles each with a confused look on their face. “Swifty speaks with a southern equestrian accent but she is actually from the north and has a northern equestrian accent” Dinky explained chuckling slightly “She only dropped the accent when she get tipsy, she hasn’t learned how to hold her liqueur yet” she smiled at the boys Swifty’s ears perked up as she turned to Dinky “Oy! I can a hold my liquor jus fine, jus cause I ain’t no dragon donna mean nuthin!” She shouted ears folded back and her eyes unfocused as she drowned the rest of her drink “Another round Salty!” She shouted “She’s Scottish! She’s a Scottish pony!” Mikey giggled all excitedly as he took another sip of his own whiskey “Ya…know once you get pass the burn…this stuff is awesome!” He shouted giggling even more as his world began spinning. Donnie slowly drank his saki “I feel…calm…” He muttered also feeling a slight tingle going down his esophagus…his mind felt slightly unfocused but it did have a good taste. Raphael drank down his own pint of beer, it burned! It burned so good! He liked the burning feel “That…is a good burn” He huffed shaking his head quickly and sighing softly…he suddenly felt really sad…like the world around him was finally closing in… Leonardo simply drank his saki as he kept an eye on his brother’s their reactions. He felt almost hyperaware all of a sudden…sitting there he kept perfectly still not moving a single muscle… Dinky sipped her wine and picked pieces off her soufflé to nibble on, she held an air of elegance as she glanced at her drinking buddies. Her eyes fluttered towards Raph admiring his muscular physic without a care, the unicorn bit her bottom lip slightly as her eyes swept over the red turtles body. Raph shuddered as he took a swig of the beer, he glanced at Dinky and blinked…for some reason the look in her eyes was freaking him out. He glanced away, he felt rather exposed all of a sudden…he swallowed his beer finding the bitter taste of hops to his liking. The night carried on from there, the turtles felt there visions swirling in a mass of colors and shapes. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx “A…and I’m sorry…so…so sorry” Raphael cried tears pour out his eyes as he leaned on Mona’s shoulder. He hiccuped and cried even harder “I’m…a…a terrible brother….” His words were slurred and muffled as he poured his drunken soul… Mona smirked as she wrote everything down “Two beers and your like a truth tap,” She smiled at her little black book of blackmail materials she would more then likely use later “Beer…the best truth serum ever” she chuckled taking another swig of her keg. “Wah…time is it?” Donatello asked trying to get up from his seat, he was the lest drunk of his brothers but he still stumbled about and fell to the ground. His vision was some what blurred and suddenly he couldn’t help himself as he started laughing randomly. Leonardo didn’t know who he was holding much less making out with but he was kissing someone and gropping their butt. He mind was a total blank and he was running on pure instinct as his hand traveled up the mystery girl’s back earning a groan from his current partner…and suddenly he was laying on the floor the taste of blood in his mouth along with the tell tale signs of being punched hard in the face…all he could do was get up spit out the blood in his mouth and stagger about trying to figure out what happened to him… Dinky blinked unsure what had just happened…one moment she was making out with Leo and enjoying it the next thing…she was angry and punched the jerk for trying to take advantage of her. The unicorn staggered out of the bar without a word… Swifty laughed loudly letting out a snort as she slapped Mikey on the shoulder. “Y…ya a funny one ain’t ya!” She shouted as her forehead touched his shoulder “Wanna try the reaaaallly good stuff Mikey-boy?” She giggled as she pulled out a black colored bottle “From Princess Luna’s private stash….7 moonrise moonshine” She reached over the bar and grabbed some shot glasses. “Leeeeeets doooo this babe!” Mikey cheered waving his arms in the air and laughed as Swifty put down the glass and poured him a shot. “Oooohhh look at that…..” He giggled as he stared at the drink, it was a clear liquid with silver sparkles as if it was the beams of the moon itself….he took the shot in one gulp “Oooohhh yeah mama!” He laughed along with Swifty Swift Heart drowned her own shoot and let loose a laugh “That’s the way ta drink a shoot” She cheered clapping her hands in praise. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx The morning came and Splinter blinked as he noticed the dojo was empty….not even Leonardo was here…the rat was concerned…he decided to go check on them hoping they were simply in their rooms. However concerned quickly turned to anger as he spotted his sons sprawled out in the common room of their lair sleeping soundly. Splinter turned on the light and shouted “Wake up!” His voice was stern and angry as his sons groggily began moaning and sitting up… Raph glared hard the light hurting his eyes “Aww man…when did the lair lights become so bright” He covered his eyes it was annoying him how bad his head hurt. “I don’t feel so good…” Mikey moaned as he quickly got up and stumbled to the bathroom as fast as his hangover legs could take him. The sound of retching caused Splinter some concern, maybe his sons were indeed sick? Leonardo blinked “Why do I have…bruises on my shoulder?” “Leo…I think those are…hickies!” Donnie exclaimed rubbing his head as he squinted his eyes painfully “Aw shell my head is killing me..” Splinter stepped forward and his nose got a whiff of something that he honestly never expected to smell, and his anger once again stormed back in “Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, Michelangelo!” He shouted cause the turtles to wince in pain at the loud sound “You were drinking! Your fifteen! How did you even get your hands on alcohol?!” He demanded Donnie spoke up knowing they were busted “Apparently Equis law says fifteen is legal…the girls invited us to drink….” He looked away feeling ashamed of himself “Swifty has a cute Scottish accent….and a taste for whiskey…” Mikey moaned covering his eyes to block out the light as he hobbled back into the main room. Raph looked away looking guilty as well, he let Mona pressure him “It’s Mona’s fault she started it all!” he shouted causing his brother to groan in pain… Splinter sighed “Rest my sons, I believe your first hangover is punishment enough and it seems I will be speaking with Luna about this” He said turning the light off to allow some relief to his sons. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Mona stretched as she woke that morning “Ahhh what a good night!” She said happily with a chuckle as she got out of bed and head over to the water basin in her room. She poured water from a pitcher into the basin and lathered up some soap and washed her face, neck and claws “I’ll have to get my mane washed later…Swifty still hasn’t fixed the plumbing” She said with a frown on her face as she bit her bottom lip. Oh was she going to have fun today! She giggled happily as she picked up her brush and began combing her mane… “Your ladyship breakfast will be served soon, I have also been informed their shall be a guest joining you” A servant said bowing before he left Mona blinked a guest? Who was here? Oh well probably some noble from another pony settlement that was here to discuss something boring…more then likely was dressed in last years fashion….eeeww Dinky made her way to the dinning hall, even after all these years it was still weird to live in such luxury. The unicorn hardily remembered when servants and maid suddenly seemed to appear in the castle…or when the the old run down library they used to live in even became a castle…but after some more refugees settled down with their own homes, they suddenly began working on the architecture of the library and transforming it into what it was today….and some ponies with cleaning and cooking special talents came here to work… Even stranger was how they treated her! Like she was some pony important! Dinky reached the dinning hall and the two maids waiting there opened the door for her and bow….Dinky blushed and nodded her head to them as she entered the dinning hall… Swift Heart rubbed her eyes as she waited for the other two to show up “I’m hungry…please feed me” She pouted looking at Luna with puppy dog eyes. “We have a guest Swift Heart, we will wait for your sisters to show up before any further business” Luna said sitting at the head of the table, to her left was none other then Master Splinter looking rather stern. Folding her ears back as she glanced at Splinter wondering why he was even here in the first place, and more importantly why he was interrupting the morning meal….she glanced at the granola and berries on the table and felt her stomach growl in protest of waiting for food. Luna eyed her youngest with a sigh before shifting her glance towards the door, the other two would be showing up very soon…. On cue both Dinky and Mona entered the dinning hall, dressed in their armor and ready for anything the day to bring on. “Good Mornin’ Settlement Town! The Knights of Luna are up and filled with prep!” Mona shouted spreading her arms wide opened and smiling “What’s up Master Splinter didn’t expect to see you down this early in the morning” The dragon said flashing a smile at the rat. Dinky blinked suddenly the feeling a sense of impending doom upon them, the unicorn glanced at both Mona and Swifty “Um…Mona…I think we’re in trouble…” she said folding her ears back. The dragon looked confused, her ears perking up as she cocked her head to the side wondering why in the world she’d be in trouble. Mona couldn’t think of anything she done wrong recently “Why do ya say that?” she asked scratching her head. Dinky sighed rubbing her forehead shaking her head, “Sometimes I wonder about your mind Mona” she said simply The two older teens took their seats by Swifty and looked at Splinter and Luna while waiting for permission to eat. Swift Heart however didn’t bother waiting before diving into the fruit bowl and stuffing a whole orange into her mouth and swallowing it happily. “SWIFTY!” Dinky shouted glaring “Your supposed to wait until Princess Luna says it’s okay to eat!” She scolded the younger mare whom just shrugged. Swift Heart rolled her eyes and continued to eat, after all Luna said to wait for everyone to show up and now everyone was here…what did it matter anyhow? She stuffed a handful of berries into her mouth licking up the juices over her muzzle. Luna sighed messaging the temples on her forehead with distress, “Girls…” She said softly before looking up at them “You are indeed in trouble” She said sternly. She quickly used her magic to clean Swifty’s face and placed the food far enough away in order to keep all three girl’s attention “Splinter has informed you three went drinking last night…which explains the lost of my moonshine….” She cleared her throat quickly before continuing. “While in Equestria it is legal for those of your age to drink, that doesn’t mean you should encourage other to join in!” She scolded glaring at the three, “Splinter is quit cross with you for potentially endangering his sons…and thus as punishment you three will be handling the boys choirs and tending to them while they suffer their hangovers” Luna said sternly Swifty looked at Mona and glared, Dinky also glared at Mona both girls knew it was the dragon’s fault. Mona glanced at both girl and smiled shyly ducking her head down a bit while chuckling nervously “How was I suppose to know they couldn’t drink?” she tried to defend herself only to get an apple thrown at her head thanks to Dinky’s magic. “Do not try and shift blame! I believe it was your taunting manner that encouraged them, you’ve demonstrated the art of peer pressure!” Swifty snapped wings flared, ears folded back clearly not happy about her day being taken over by extra choirs. Dinky snarled “I tried to discourage them! This is so not fair! Once again we’re in trouble thanks to you Mona!” using her magic she hurled several more items at the dragon. “Owowow! Dinky seriously! I was teasing them!” Mona Lisa said trying to defend herself “Besides I pour it down their freaking throats! That was Berry Punch once she got involved!” the dragon snarled using her tail to knock a few free flying items that came her way. “ENOUGH!” Luna shouted using the royal canterlot voice and causing the room to shake with her very power. The princess of the night glared at her charges as they scrambled to their seats “I don’t care whose fault it was the point being their father didn’t approve of any alcoholic consumption and thus I will hold all three of you responsible!” She decreed Splinter cleared his throat “I expect you three in one hour at my home to being the boy’s choirs” He said simply as he excused himself. Splinter had to admit though….he really wished he could shout like Princess Luna, he chuckled imaging the terrified looks on his precious sons’ faces when using such a dramatic voice. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx As they were told, the girls now stood in the lair of the turtle boys. All three glancing around the place it was actually the first time they had visited the turtles even though they had been told were their home was prior to this visit. “Yup…definitely needs a mare’s touch” Mona commented glancing around frowning upon the decor, truly this was a bachelor pad…no colors, no style, and no taste it stunk of sweat and something greasy….really bad grease…. Swify sighed face palming as Mona spoke “Sister please refrain from redecorating, it isn’t our home and thus not your place to…make changes” she scolded already feeling a headache coming on from the predicted designing rant Mona was sure to give…She prayed for a distraction from this torment. “Don’t get us in more trouble Mona! Let’s just get these choirs over with because we still have our choirs and training later on” Dinky said still seething. Splinter entered the room “Oh good your here” He walked over to them and handed each of them a short list “These will be your choirs for the day” with that he walked back to the dojo to meditate for the day. The three girls looked at their list then at each other before sighing and heading off in separate directions. Swift Heart was stuck with dusting, Dinky cleaning the floors, and Mona was stuck cleaning the kitchen. Swifty was flapping her wings in order to reach the hard to reach places, she was even dusting the ceiling, a sound caught her attention. With a twitch of her ears she heard something strange, blinking she touched the floor and made her way towards the strange sound. Mona was scrubbing pots and pans clearly not happy about being anywhere near a kitchen, much less cleaning one! She was suppose to mop the floor and clean the sinks and table surfaces. Dinky Doo was sweeping the floor, afterwards she was suppose to mop the whole area and then clean furniture in the living area. For a sewer it was already pretty clean…but daily cleaning was always needed, she glanced at her list and cringed…she also had to clean the bathroom…clean a bathroom primarily dominated by males didn’t appeal to her at all… The little pegasus followed the sound into what looked like a lab, it was more bleak and dark compared to her personal lab…but highly impressive…very impressive in fact she could never imagine such wonders or creating such things like these…was that condenser cell? Snapping from her thought Swifty looked around for the source of the sound… A white orb flashing fuchsia turned out to be the source, Swifty approached with caution…what was this thing? What was it doing? A computer screen flashing caught her eye, taking a seat by the computer. She followed the words on the screen “Krang? Whom might this Krang be?” She began decoding the message as best she could…her eyes widen and her heart stopped… “That which is called The Tree of Harmony…but is not an actual tree has been brought to Krang from Krang for the experiment in which Krang will discover the power source of the tree which is called Harmony…” She read silently and began typing furiously trying to find a location…how would this krang know about the Tree of Harmony…a bigger question however is why would he…they? Have the tree? No…it didn’t matter why…what mattered was getting the tree back…she looked got the location and printed it out… Mona was busy mopping the kitchen floor, while Dinky had moved unto the bathroom with much disdain when Swifty ran out of the lab she was in “Girls…stop what your doing…I have information..” She said sternly The older girls blinked and looked at Swifty looking worried, “What’s wrong Bright Light…you look upset” Mona commented putting her mop down and walking over to the little pegasus… Dinky followed curious as to what Swifty had to say, “If you were snooping in Donnie’s things he isn’t going to be happy you know…” “I don’t know…who these Krang are…but…they have it…” Swifty said bowing her head, anger rushing in her veins “They have the Tree of Harmony, and there bring to the old warehouse on the hudson bay number 47” She showed them the message she had retrieved from the computer… Mona snarled “The Tree of Harmony? If they have it…who ever they are…” she didn’t want to finish that sentence but the other two seemed to know what she was thinking “It’s possible…this Krang…is the one responsible for Equis destruction” Dinky looked at her adopted sisters, she knew what she was about to do was wrong…but she needed to know…they all did “Girls…let’s go” she used her magic to summon their weapons. Dinky strapped her trident unto her back and nodded to Mona and Swifty, before turning towards the entrance and heading out Swifty took her saber and shield and strapped them unto her person “We must make haste…if we stall too long Splinter may catch wind of our departure” she followed Dinky quickly ready to learn the truth “Let’s kick some butt girls…we have a world to avenge” Mona said strapping both her weapons on and creaking her knuckles as she followed behind the two. This wasn’t going to be some training exercise…they were potentially walking into something very dangerous… Neither of the girls noticed that Swifty had left the Krang message behind… xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMLP/TMNTxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Splinter noticed it was rather quite, too quite for three squabbling teenage girls forced to clean…perking his ears up he decided to check on them. Standing up he took hold of his walking stick and left his dojo. The old rat blinked when he saw half done choirs and sighed…he’ll have to speak with Luna about those girls…he walked over to the table where he spotted a piece of paper thinking perhaps they left a note… What he read turned his blood cold, he didn’t understand the message but perhaps the girls had…they were going to face the Krang…turned towards the living room he shouted “BOYS!” He shouted loudly, he only hoped his sons would get their in time… To be continued…