//------------------------------//
// The Return 
// Story: The Friendship Mafia 
// by FlareGun45 
//------------------------------//

It’s been very peaceful these last several months. My pop hasn’t been bothering me or the mob in a while, but I still have been seeing my brother spying on us, but he had no proof to give back to his pop that I wasn’t up to any good. Over the months, I’ve been watching the news and I keep hearing about my old friend Flare Gun being victorious over the months. I am very proud of him. He has the life he deserves, and I think I’m to thank for it. If he hasn’t been bullied so much and betrayed, he wouldn’ve moved away and have all these achievements. I no longer regret what I’ve done in the past, as it turns out to be a blessing in disguise! I just hope one day he returns and I could officially apologize what I’ve done in the past.

Anyways, today was a good day for us. My friends and I were patrolling the Hoof Point Mall for any arguments that need to be resolved, like we’ve been doing every Sunday. “What’s the status, boys?” I asked.

“I found two ponies with relationship issues.” Clay said as he whistles. “I swear the main relationship issue these days is money and buying clothes.”

“Interesting, Clay.” I nodded. “How about you, Turnip?”

“You see, I was looking, but I smelled something good at the food court, and it made me hungry, so I went across the street to Olive Garden.” Turnip said. “Sorry, boss.”

I sighed. “Turnip, if you’re going to use your job seriously, you have to look out for anything suspicious.”

“Well I saw a carriage limo ride by yesterday and I heard singing coming from it. Is that suspicious?” Turnip asked.

“No.” I said. “Unless they’re singing about disharmony.”

“No they’re singing about Mareami.” Turnip said.

“Anything bad about Mareami?” I asked.

“No.” Turnip said.

“Then forget about it!” I said. Wow, I sound good when I say that! I should say ‘forget about it’ more often! “Ok Angel, any ‘cleaning of the streets’ you want to report?”

“What you talking about, man? We’re in a mall, there’s no streets here, man.” Angel corrected me.

I chuckled. “My mistake, Angel! What do you have to report?”

“Yeah, man, I saw this weird marshmallow-like pony at the JcBits, man. She’s been complaining about how expensive that place is, man.” Angel explained. “I mean she doesn’t even look like she’s from here, man. Anything suspicious about that?”

“Can you tell me about her?” I asked.

“She just had a weird French accent, man. She sounded like one of those uptight Canterlot ponies, man.” Angel said.

“Alright nothing to worry about there. Canterlot is not known for criminals.” I said. “Annabelle? Do you have anything to report?”

“Well first I saw-“ Annabelle started.

“I don’t need to hear anymore, Annabelle. You’re the only one taking this job seriously. You have more things to report than what Turnip gets in a week!” I said.

“HEY!” Turnip complained.

“Such a teacher’s pet, brother!” Clay complained.

“I can’t help it, holms!” Annabelle said. “I just do what I can to keep the peace!”

“You also have been getting a lot of recruits lately to join our cause.” Clay added.

“Isn’t that what I’m supposed to do, C?” Annabelle asked.

“And that’s why you became capo, Annabelle.” I nodded.

“Exactly!” Annabelle said.

“Hey we have reasonable jobs too, man!” Angel complained.

“Yeah, aren’t I in charge of supplies in the group?” Clay asked. “I’m always able to find a van-load of supplies! Do I need to help keep peace on the streets too?”

“Yeah, and I’m in charge of electronics in this group.” Turnip said. “What if I was at Olive Garden looking for some equipment?”

“And I’m in charge of the streets, man!” Angel said. “The streets is my life! Man, the streets knows me! I’m one with the streets, man!”

“Whatever, I don’t want to argue with you guys.” I said. “Anyways, has any of you seen Autumn lately?”

“No, ese, I haven’t seen him all month.” Annabelle said.

“Nothing.” Clay said.

“Nada.” Turnip said.

“I know these streets, man, and I haven’t seen your bro on any of them.” Angel sai- “…man.” Don’t interrupt my narration! Now I know how Flare feels with his story! This is so stressful! I’m so glad this story is much shorter than his is.

Just then, my phone suddenly started ringing. “Hello?” I asked.

“Herb, you didn’t even take your phone out yet.” Turnip pointed out.

“Right.” I nodded, because I forgot to say ‘I took out my phone and answered it’, well… I did. “Hello?”

“How ya doin’, kid? Mall duty goin’ well?” Poni asked on the phone.

“Sure is, boss!” I nodded.

“Excellent!” Poni said in a Mr. Burns accent. “Anyways, I have a new mission for you, and I think you’re goin’ to either love this one, or hate it.”

“What is it?” I asked.

“Meet me back at HQ. I’ll tell you mono e mono.” Poni said. “Bye!” he hangs up.

“What’s happening, H?” Annabelle asked.

“We have to return to HQ.” I said.

“We?” Angel asked.

“Well he said ‘me’, but you four are my crew, and we do everything together!” I said.

“That is true, brother.” Clay agreed.

“Well can we get the free samples over at the food court first?” Turnip asked. “I’m hungry, but I don’t want to pay.”

“I second that, man.” Angel said with his hoof in the air.

So the five of us headed back to HQ to talk to Poni about the mission he’s about to give us. Before we went inside, Bright Wing and Star Trot stopped us. “Please place your weapons on the table.” Star Trot requested.

“You’re kiddin’ right?” I asked.

“It was all MONTHS ago! Get over it!” Annabelle complained.

“Don’s orders.” Bright Wing said.

“My flank.” I said as we all placed our harmless weapons on the table.

“ALL of them.” Bright Wing said.

“Hmph!” Clay groaned as he placed his sling shot on the table.

“I’ll say it again… ALL.” Bright Wing repeated.

“GAAAAH!” Clay groaned again as he placed his box of rubber bands on the table.

“Ok, you can go now.” Star Trot said as he and Bright Wing moves out of the way so my crew and I can go in to see the don. Before we go inside, Bright Wing snatches a pencil out of Clay’s jacket pocket.

“C’MOOOON!” Clay complained.

“Pencils are weapons.” Bright Wing said.

“You two are so annoying like GOSH!” Clay complained.

“Herb Leafhorn, and… everypony else! How ya doin’?” Poni asked as we walked into the room.

“Doing great, boss! How are you?” I asked.

“Could be better. I’m forced not to leave my own house just so the Sharks would leave us alone, but other than that, peachy!” Poni said.

“That’s good, boss!” Clay said.

“Or it could be bad.” Turnip said.

“Or somewhere in the middle.” Angel added.

“So what’s the mission you have for us, Pone?” I asked.

“An old friend of yours has returned, my boy. I wanted to tell you face to face.” Poni said.

“Who?” I asked.

“Who do you think?” Poni asked sarcastically.

“Is it Flare?” Herb asked.

“No, it’s Jeff Gorspeed.” Poni said sarcastically.

“Really? Because I thought this week’s race is supposed to take place for the first time ever in the Crystal Empire?” I asked.

“I love you, Herb, but you’re a moron.” Poni said. “YES! It’s Flare Gun! He’s returned to Mareami to receive his award at the Food Awards in a couple of days.”

“Wow…” I said shockingly. “Flare has returned! That is… that is wonderful! This is my chance to finally make peace with him!”

“Don’t forget us, man.” Angel said.

“Yeah, holms. We did him wrong too, remember?” Annabelle reminded me.

“Yeah, but I did the most damage. You two just followed along.” I corrected them.

“Oh what? You think we’re not mean enough, man?” Angel asked. “You think- you think we just bullied him as well just because you told us too?”

“Actually, yeah.” I said.

“Relax, A. It’s all a thing in the past.” Annabelle said.

“Exactly!” I said.

“Clay and I, we never met him at all.” Turnip said.

“Perhaps this is a mission for you three to handle.” Clay suggested.

“I guess so.” Annabelle agreed.

“So what’s the mission, boss?” I asked. “Just go find Flare and tell him I turned good?”

“You think he’ll believe you?” Poni asked. “No, you have to do something else. You have to prove to him that you changed.”

“How?” I asked.

“Now that Flare Gun has returned, your father is goin’ to take notice on that, and he’ll be goin’ after him with some guys.” Poni said. “I need you to just keep watch over him, and when he’s in trouble, you go and rescue him, and bring him here. We’ll explain everythin’.”

“Is that supposed to be enough?” I asked.

“If he forgives you, we’ll allow him to use our gang to help him in any situation he’s under.” Poni said. “Anything whatsoever, because you’re in his debt, so if he asks for any help, you have to help him.”

“I wouldn’t expect nothin’ less.” I said and smiled.

“You wouldn’t expect ANYTHING less.” Turnip corrected me.

“Nopony likes a grammar ponzi, Turnip.” Clay said.

“Ponzi?” Turnip asked. “Is that what the EQA is about? Take random words and make them horse puns?”

“So can you do this, kid?” Poni asked me. “Can you save Flare from the Sharks?”

“I will most definitely save him from the Sharks. If the Sharks even THINK about layin’ hooves on my friend. They’re going to have another thing comin’!” I swore.

“I knew he would count on you, kid!” Poni said happily.

“But I’m not doin’ this cause you say so. This here is a personal matter.” I said.

“But of course!” Poni agreed. “Go on ahead, my boy! Fix what you did wrong, and your conscious shall be cleared!”

“Wow, boss! That was beautiful!” Clay said.

“I know! Doncha just love fortune cookie fortunes?” Poni asked. 

So Angel, Annabelle, and I were off to look for Flare. We didn’t know exactly where he was though, so we looked around town to see if we could find any clues. Later that night, it was pretty wet out because it was raining. In fact, it’s drizzling now. Probably a cold front coming in. So we parked the carriage to see if we could find any clues. “Any of you find him yet?” I asked.

“Not yet, H.” Annabelle said.

“I know these streets like the back of my hoof.” Angel said.

“How does that answer his question, A?” Annabelle asked.

“Just saying.” Angel shrugged.

“Wait, hang on. I see something.” Annabelle said as he looked over and saw a couple of ponies up ahead.

“What do you see, Annie?” I asked.

“Well as of right now,” Annabelle looks at me, “your nose.” He started to chuckle.

“C’mon we can’t play around right now, man. We have to find Flare, and whomever he’s with.” I said.

“Alright, man, now you’re starting to sound like Turnip, man.” Angel pointed out.

“Wait! Those are the Sharks!” Annabelle said. “They’re heading inside a carriage and it looks like they’re about to go somewhere.”

“Turnip provided with some equipment so we could eavesdrop on what they’re saying, man.” Angel said as takes out some equipment. I put on the headphones and Angel presses a few buttons to activate it.

“Let’s go into their frequency.” I instructed him. So Angel started turning the knobs on the device so we could eavesdrop on their conversation.

“Hear them, man?” Angel asked.

“No I hear a hobo snoring.” I said.

“Then it’s not the right frequency.” Angel said as he adjusts the frequency again. “How about that one, man?”

“I think I hear them.” I said. “No… no wait… it’s the ice cream pony, and… he’s not selling ice cream.”

“Well, that’s not our job. We’ll call the police for him.” Annabelle said. Angel adjusts the frequency again. 

“Oh hey!” I said excitedly as I heard the song Higher Love by Steve Winwood on this frequency. I started dancing on my chair and my singing along to the song, but just as I was doing it, Angel changes the frequency again. “NO! I love that song!”

“Hafta stay focused on the task at hand, man.” Angel reminded me. “Heh! Hand-man. My cousin would love that phrase!”

“Wait… I hear something.” I said as Angel leaves the frequency in place.

“So, Sun? You like being a Shark gang member?” one of the mobsters asked the other.

“I sure am Sunny! Being a Shark is amazing!” the other one said.

“Are they part of the Sharks mob, H?” Annabelle asked.

“No clue yet. I need more proof.” I said.

“Anyways, the boss said an old foe of his has returned to town. He’s right now eating dinner with his family at Cheesecake Factory.” Sun said.

“Shall we engage?” Sunny asked.

“I already have a wife.” Sun said.

“I meant, shall we attack?” Sunny corrected.

“Nah, too many of them. This also includes many of his friends back in Ponyville. We can only engage if he’s alone.” Sun said.

“I see.” Sunny nodded. “And what about Flare Gun?”

“Same thing with him. Both the boss’ old foe and Flare Gun shall be snatched when they’re not with their families.” Sun said.

“Wait… so there are two of them?” I asked. “My pop is hunting for somepony else?”

“Oh woops.” Sun said as he got off the phone. “Turns out, Flare Gun and the boss’ old foe are one in the same.”

“Well that makes our job easier.” Sunny said.

“Cheesecake Factory!” I said. “We have to go to Cheesecake Factory!”

“Which one, man?” Angel asked.

“There’s only one here in Mareami, A.” Annabelle reminded him.

“For all he knows, they could be talking about one in another town, man.” Angel said.

I suddenly sighed and shook my head. “We have to go to Cheesecake Factory. That’s where Flare is.”

“Are they going to attack him, H?” Annabelle asked.

“No they’re not. They said his entire family AND his friends from Ponyville are there. Too many of them.” I said.

“So why are we going?” Annabelle asked.

“I just… wanna see him.” I said.

“But didn’t Poni say you couldn’t until you prove to him that you changed?” Annabelle asked.

“I don’t want to see him directly, I just… I just want to see him and his friends. I want to see him happy.” I said.

“Can’t say no to that, man.” Angel said.

Annabelle smiled and nodded. “Then let’s go!”

“Ok, but first….” I said as I changed the frequency back to Higher Love. I knew we had stuff to do, but we knew where Flare was, and with a big party with him, it’ll take ages until their food is ready, so we have plenty of time to spare!

After I finished hearing the song, we drove over to the Cheesecake Factory nearby, and we parked right across the street from it. I looked over to see if I could see him at all. “See him, H?” Annabelle asked.

“No, there’s too much traffic.” I said.

“Perhaps we should get a closer look.” Annabelle suggested.

“Hang on. I want to hear what they’re talking about.” I said. Angel changes the frequency on the machine so I could hear what the Gun family and friends are talking about.

“Is it the right frequency, man?” Angel asked.

“BIG TIME!” I yelled as I removed the headphones instantly.

“What happened?” Annabelle asked.

“Everypony was talking at the same time.” I said. “Is there a ‘tone down talking’ switch on that thing?”

“Man, I only received directions on how to turn this thing on, man, and how to change the frequency.” Angel said. So I decided to get out of the carriage and walk over to the front of the restaurant. I looked through the window, and there he is – Flare, along with his new Ponyville friends. 

Wow, that brown pony’s got some nice armor. Wow, he’s friends with a Wonderbolt too, huh? That purple mare seems pretty attractive. No… no wait… that’s a stallion, my bad. Is that the engineer from Team Fortress 2? Hmm… that blue light blue one seems to be a recolor of that rainbow pony. Wait, those six ponies are… no way! They’re the ponies that wield the Elements of Harmony! Holy smokes! Flare made the mother lode when he moved down there! Is that a dragon? 

You know what? I’m really proud of Flare. If I didn’t chase him out of town, he wouldn’t have all this. He deserves it. I know not many ponies may think so, but hey, they’re not the ones that ruined his life. He deserves the best after all the stress I put him through. Maybe I won’t be able to gain his respect; if that were the case, I wouldn’t blame him. I wouldn’t forgive myself either. 

“I’m happy for you, Flare.” I said to myself. “This is pretty much all I wanted to see. I see you have a better life. I know it would be better if Swinebutt wasn’t in the way, but seeing you happy, well… perhaps this was all a blessing in disguise. I just hope this plan would work and you’ll be able to forgive me.” Just then, a carriage drove by next to the curve right on top of a puddle, and then I got soaking wet. “Ok, I KNOW I DID BAD IN THE PAST, BUT COME ON!” I yelled at the driver, but he didn’t hear me because he was already too far. 

When I peeked through the window again, Flare seemed to spot me. I wasn’t ready for him yet, so I decided to run back to the carriage. “He spotted me.” I said.

“How did he react, H?” Annabelle asked.

“Curious.” I said. “I don’t think he really saw me; more like, he saw my shadow, but he did seem suspicious. I don’t want to stay here any longer. I’m ready to go home.” Angel and Annabelle both nodded in agreement, and then Angel attached himself onto the carriage and he drove me back to my place. On the way, Annabelle asked me a question.

“What went on at Cheesecake Factory?” he asked.

“Flare’s happy.” I said. “I saw what I needed to see. If Flare doesn’t forgive me, I’ll be fine with that, but knowing that he’s in a better place, my conscious is now cleared.”

“By the way you said it, H, it sounded like you were saying he passed away or something.” Annabelle said.

“No! He’s alive! Even more alive than ever before! He just seemed dead the way I treated him.” I said upsettingly.

“Holms, you gotta stop blaming yourself for this.” Annabelle said. “What’s done is done. Flare is happy, and like you said, your conscious is cleared. The past is all the past, and you learned from it. You can help persuade your decedents that the Guns are not bad ponies, and the Leafhorn family name will be redeemed. I assure you, H.”

I smiled and I put my arm around Annabelle. “Thanks, Annabelle! I don’t know where I would be if you weren’t here with me.”

“I appreciate that.” Annabelle smiled along too.

“MAAAAN!” Angel yelled. “What about me?!”

“You too, Angel!” I said.

“No, no, it’s too late, man. You had your chance, man.” Angel said in an insulted tone.

“Angel, c’mooooon! Don’t be like that!” I teased.

“No, man, no. I don’t wanna hear it.” Angel said. Regardless of him being insulted, he still dropped me off at home where I could get some sleep.

The next morning came, and my phone started ringing. I didn’t wanna get it so I let the voice message thing pop up. “Ey! This is Herb Lore! Yes, that is my name. Don’t think otherwise. Spread the friendship everywhere! Please leave a message.” My voice said in the pre-recording message, and then after the beep, it was Poni that left the message.

“Ey, Herb Lore. I’m lookin’ for m’boy Herb LEAFHORN.” Poni said on the message. “Well, if he’s not around, can you leave a message for him for me please? I just wanted to tell him that the Sharks mob attacked him last night at the West Palm Night Club.”

“WHAT?!” I yelled as I woke up instantly and then answered the phone. “You’re kiddin’ right?!”

“Hello? Is this Herb Lore, or Herb Leafhorn?” Poni teased.

“BOSS! What are you sayin’?! Flare got attacked?!” I panicked.

“Hear my message again and find out.” Poni teased.

“Boss, please!” I begged, not feeling in the mood for jokes.

“Alright, alright. Not a mornin’ pony, huh?” Poni asked.

“Not really.” I said.

“Anyways, Flare was attacked last night at the West Palm Night Club. He had a purple unicorn with him.” Poni explained. “They were both able to fend off the mob, but when the time hope seemed lost, a couple more of Flare’s friends came to rescue him.”

“Phew… that’s a relief.” I said.

“Yeah, but I eavesdropped on a phone call. They’re plannin’ to kidnap Flare today at the Hoof Point Stadium when he goes there to check in.” Poni said.

“Then that’s my chance to save him.” I said.

“I’m sendin’ you Star Trot and Bright Wing to assist you.” Poni said.

“Really? Them?” I asked. “No offense, boss, but lately, they’ve been actin’ weird. A little too over-protective towards you.”

“I wouldn’t blame them, after your attempted betrayal.” Poni reminded me.

“THAT WAS A LONG TIME AGO, BOSS!” I yelled. “Good Faust! This is gettin’ irriatin’! I thought the Friendship Mafia was about forgettin’ and forgivin’?”

“Sometimes we have to take necessary precautions, my boy.” Poni said. “That doesn’t mean I don’t trust yous, but let’s not forget the deal yous made to yous father.”

I nodded. “I remember.”

“Now go ahead and do what yous need to do. I’m prayin’ for him to forgive yous.” Poni said.

“So am I, boss. So am I.” I agreed. “Thanks for the heads-up!”

“No problemo!” Poni said. “Chow!”

“Chow!” I said as I ended the call. I knew what I to do now. I must head to the Hoof Point Stadium and await Flare’s arrival so I can protect him from the Sharks, but this is pretty much the first time since the fight with the Swinebots that I was working along side Star Trot and Bright Wing. So I met with those two at the stadium, where they were waiting for me at the front entrance.

“Herb Leafhorn! You’re a sight for soar eyes, kid.” Star said.

“Kid? I’m the second-in-command in this mob now. Let’s not forget that.” I reminded him.

“Of course, underboss! My bad!” Star said.

“Underboss… you like being under the boss, huh Herb?” Bright Wing teased as he and Star Trot started to laugh.

“That’s not funny.” I said.

“Pretty sensitive for such a big stallion, huh?” Bright Wing asked.

“Let’s just wait for Flare to show up.” I said.

“Sure, big pone, sure. Whatever you say.” Bright Wing said as he leaned against the wall. I was getting a little bored waiting for Flare to show up, so I decided to make conversation.

“So… you two seem close. How did you two meet?” I asked.

“Our cousins are a couple.” Star Trot said.

“Really? I didn’t think this was Alapumba.” I teased.

“Yeah, ha ha, big pone.” Star said in an insulted tone.

“My cousin Still Wing, and his cousin Starshine Trot, yeah once they got to know eachother’s families, Star and I got along pretty fast.” Bright Wing said.

“It’s not every day in-laws become friends.” I said.

“That’s what I said!” Bright Wing said.

“No kiddin’!” Star said as the three of us all laughed. Hmm, I get along with these two just fine, but my friends don’t seem to like them that much. It’s weird. The friend of my friend is my enemy or something like that. I dunno. After a while of waiting, a carriage arrives in front of the stadium, and I was sure it wasn’t Flare. “Sharks carriage!” Star pointed out.

“Hide!” Bright Wing whispered as the two of them hoped over and hid behind bushes. I didn’t know wear to hide so I just put my hooves over my face. The ponies that got out of the Sharks carriage was a couple of mobsters, AND my dad, AND my brother!

“Flare’s inside this building, pop.” Autumn said to dad.

“Are you sure?” my dad asked.

“Positive. I followed him here and he came through the rear entrance.” Autumn said.

I sighed and shook my head. “The rear entrance, of course.”

“Let’s head inside and snatch him.” my dad said mischievously as he, Autumn, and the mobsters all walked inside the stadium, ironically, not noticing that I was there, but before I had the chance to walk inside, I saw Flare, his sister Water, and his Wonderbolt friend walking out of the stadium. I blocked my face again, hoping they wouldn’t see me, and luckily they didn’t as they walked by. When they walked out to the parking lot, I heard them talking.

“Oh wait, I have to use the restroom.” The Wonderbolt said to Flare.



“Can it wait until we get to the hotel?” Flare asked.

“No.” the Wonderbolt said as he danced around.

“Alright, but only if you have to go number 1.” Flare said.

“Yes.” The Wonderbolt said.

“Fine. Make it quick.” Flare instructed him. So the Wonderbolt ran (I had no idea why he wasn’t flying) passed me again as I blocked my face and he went into the stadium. Wow, I really can’t believe this trick actually works! So I’ve been waiting for 20 minutes to see what’s happening. Water and Flare thought the Wonderbolt was taking an awfully long time, so they both went back inside the stadium to check on him. I followed them inside to see if the Sharks were going to do anything to snatch them. So far, there was nothing.

“Nothing yet, huh Herb?” Bright Wing asked as he and Star Trot were sneaking right behind me.

“AAH!” I screamed. “Oh… I forgot you two were here.”

“How unfortunate. Herb barely even knows we exist.” Bright Wing said upsettingly.

“He doesn’t seem to like us.” Star said.

“Oh shush with that!” I instructed them.

“See? Nothin’.” Bright Wing said. So I saw Flare and Water heading towards the Stallion’s restroom. Water stayed outside as Flare went inside. I saw the mobsters heading inside behind him, and then I saw Star Trot and Bright Wing follow. I didn’t want Flare’s sister to come to any harm, so I wanted to get her away from there. Besides, I wanted to catch up with her.

“Well, lookie who it is! Water Gun! You are a sight for soar eyes!” I said excitedly.



“Herb Leafhorn Jr. Look at you!” Water said as she observed me. “You didn’t seem to change a bit!”

“I didn’t change much since we dated.” I shrugged.

“Well it’s great to see you again, Herb! But I don’t think you should be here. Flare wouldn’t want to see you.” Water said.

“I know he doesn’t, but I want to prove to him that I changed.” I said.

“Yeah, I said that to a lot of my ex-stallionfriends, but did they listen? Noooooo.” Water complained.

“Relax, Water, I’m not askin’ Flare on a date or nothin’.” I said.

“You were one of the ex-stallionfriends, Herb.” Water said with an attitude.

“Water, don’t you see? I’m part of the Friendship Mafia now. I have to prove to Flare that I changed!” I said.

“Which isn’t that much, big bro.” Autumn said from right behind me.

“Oh hey, Autumn!” Water said.


“Hey, Water!” Autumn said. “I see you’re doin’ pretty well!”

“You didn’t return any of my calls.” Water said curiously.

“Rubbin’ your nose in Sharks business again, huh Herb?” Autumn asked. “Pop won’t be pleased.”

“Looks who’s talkin’!” I yelled. “Y’know, bro, I’m startin’ to get the feelin’ you know the truth!”

“That Poni’s still in town and it was all a sham?” Autumn asked. “Trust me, we knew from the start. Also, blocking your eyes with your hooves, that trick may work on most ponies, but I’m immune to that! I know all your tricks, Herb! That’s why pop is always one step ahead of you and your mob! I know EVERYTHING about you!”

“Why are you doin’ this, bro?” I asked. “You don’t have to have pop use you like this! You could be a good pony!”

“I told you; pop always loved you best before. I’ve been wanting to be in your position since I was born!” Autumn said. “Now pop loves me best, and taddling on you is makin’ it worth while! I have to keep doin’ it if pop is gonna love me best, and soon, when the right time comes, I’m gonna take over the gang!”

“Is he promoting you, or… are you goin’ to betray him?” I asked.

“Me? Betray my own pop? Never!” Autumn said. “Hey you know how things are, bro? It’s all just business. That’s what pop says. It’s never personal. Except when it comes to the Guns, it’s always personal.”

“And I still don’t get why both of you dated me.” Water said.

“Face it, Herb; the game is up. We know Poni is still around, but he, nor you or the mob could do anything for the next plan and he has in mind!” Autumn said mischievously.

“What plan?” I asked.

“A plan that not even the FDA nor the DIF would be able beat!” Autumn said. Just then, pop runs out of the stallion’s restroom in complete fright. “Autumn, we’re leaving!” he said.

“Right behind you, pop!” Autumn said.

“You lied to me, Herb!” pop said angrily to me. “You and the Friendship Mob are not goin’ to be in control any longer! Poni better be watchin’ his back!” So he and Autumn runs away.

“We got him.” Star Trot said as he and Bright Wing walk out of the bathroom with a big sack.

“What did you get?” I asked.

“We got Flare and we’re takin’ him back to HQ.” Star Trot said.

“BY KIDNAPPIN’ HIM?!” I yelled.

“He wouldn’t trust us either way. We have to bring him to HQ and you can explain to him everythin’.” Bright Wing said.

“And you think kidnappin’ him WOULD help?!” I asked angrily.

“Wow, Herb… you really do care! You really did change!” Water said impressively. “I mean, that doesn’t mean I want to date you again, but… good job!” she pats me on the back.

“Thanks, Water!” I said. “Now go get Flare’s friends and explain them everythin’. I promise, Flare will be back soon. I need to have a personal conversation with him.”

“Ok then! Nice catching up with you, Herb!” Water said as she walked away.

“Wait! What about your Wonderbolt friend?” I asked her.

“Oh, Blaze Goldheart? Don’t worry about him; he’s just taking care of business in there still I believe. He’ll catch up with his when he’s ready. See, this is why you can’t trust fast food vendors; not even at stadiums.” Water explained.

It was nice catching up with her! Anyways, Star Trot, Bright Wing, and I all headed back to HQ so I can explain to Flare everything that I’ve been doing since he left. Angel and Annabelle were over there too to help out. When we got inside, they greeted us. “Hey, man!” Angel said.

“Did you find Flare?” Annabelle asked.

“Bright Wing and Star Trot did.” I said.

“So that means I’m presuming he’s in a sack of some sort.” Annabelle presumed. Star Trot and Bright Wing both walked inside the HQ behind me carrying Flare inside of the kidnapping sack.

“Does this answer your question?” I asked sarcastically. So Star and Bright places Flare on a chair and then removes the sack from his head. 

Flare looks around and comments, “Wow, this place is filthy!”

“We get those a lot.” Bright Wing said.

Well this was my chance to persuade him that I changed, but first, I thought I should humor him a bit. “Hello, Flare Gun, or should I say, ‘butthead’? Heh, I’m jokin’ with you, buddy. I’ve been quite clever lately after I shoved my bulliness aside.” I teased.

“Who… who are you?” Flare asked nervously

“You don’t recognize me, do you?” I asked as I  walked out of the shadows and revealed myself to him. “Hello, Flare Gun! It’s been a long time!”

“Herb Leafhorn, Jr. My old school bully. The one that got me to go out with Blueberry Pie and made me befriend Swinebutt, and then has forced them to betray me.” Flare said.

“I know, I know, I have a lot of explaining to do.” I said.

“YOU’RE DARN RIGHT YOU DO! You really got some nerve to kidnap me! I got friends in high places now that’ll kick your flank!” Flare yelled.

“Flare, listen!” I attempted to get his attention.

“NO, YOU LISTEN! You made Swinebutt betray me; you made my life miserable at school!” Flare yelled.

“FLARE! LISTEN TO ME!” I yelled and slammed on the table.

“Why are you calling me Flare? Why don’t you call me Crimson like you always do?” Flare asked. “You know I hate it.”

“That’s why I’m not calling you it!” I said. “Look, Flare. I’m really sorry, alright? My pop made me bully you! He persuaded me to hate Guns and made me think your ancestors murdered one of mine and declared war on them, until I found out later that it was all a lie. A big fat lie!”

“You have to believe me, man. He didn’t mean any of this to happen, man.” Angel explained.

“Angel Heartstrings. Wow… you haven’t changed a bit.” Flare said as he observed him.

“It was wrong for us to bully you like that, Flare. We owe you our sincere apologies.” Annabelle explained.

“Annabelle too. What’s going on here, Herb?” Flare asked.

“I want to make peace with you, Flare! I’m a good guy. You have it all wrong, man.” I said. “I’ve been trying to get in contact with you for ages. I wanted to go to Ponyville to look for you, but you wouldn’t believe me, so I had to prove it somehow. When I found out that my pop was hunting you down, I couldn’t just let him get away with it.”

I really had the feeling he wasn’t going to believe me, but he was really thinking it over. Surprisingly, he said the words I never thought he would say: “You know what, I actually believe you.” He said. Wow, he forgave me just like that? It’s either Ponyville changed him or he’s still pretty gullible, or both.

“You do? Did my dad tell you?” I asked.

“He did. That’s pretty much why I believe you. I had the feeling you were too easy on me. I saw by the look of your eyes that you didn’t like it. I do want to make peace with you too, Herb. I don’t let the past bother me. That’s why I moved to Ponyville. I was afraid to come back because then you’d try to get me to leave again if I returned, but it turns out that you want what I want.” Flare explained.

“It is true.” I nodded. “Flare, I feel so guilty about picking on you, and beating you up at school, and I’ll do anything to make it up to you! After I saw Swinebutt betray you like that, I felt…. I felt that all this hate in the world, I mean…. Look nopony wants hate, and I know that for sure. My dad’s a leader of the Shark gang mafia. They like to do anything to keep them on top, make them rich, selfish. So in hoping to fix my mistakes, I joined the Friendship Mafia gang here in Little Hoovana. My friend, the don, Poni Cipriani, created this gang to keep the peace, keep friendship flowing along! I know how much you wanted that, so I thought if I were to join this gang, I thought you’d be happier, but I was too late, you ran away. Until I found out you moved to Ponyville, I felt so bad that you might’ve not liked it. So I wanted to make sure nopony else suffers the same fate as you!”

“Forty-five degree angle mouth face.” he said. “So…. you never really hated me?”

“Your jokes were a little annoying, but no I didn’t hate you. I was young, stupid, and now I’m old enough to make my own decisions. My dad cannot control me anymore.” I explained. “After what my dad did to you,and all the other ponies he hated….. I hated him for that. So I must do all I can to destroy his gang, and restore peace to the city!”

“Wow…. I… I never thought you felt that way.” Flare said surprisingly.

“I will not stand by and see other ponies suffer hate, conflicts, suffering, anger, selfishness. It’s so unbearable, Flare!” I said.

“My teddy is unbearable.” Flare teased and laughed.

“Funny.” I said sarcastically. “So, if you want to punch me in the face right now, and beat me up, so we can be even, then by all means do so!”

“But….. NO!” he said.

“Why not? You know you want to!” I persuaded him. “It’s ok! I promise I won’t get my gang to stop you.”

“Herb, you apologized, you learned your lesson, and you were only trying to protect yourself. I might’ve done the same thing. But you know what? Two wrongs don’t make a right, but three rights make a left though.” Flare said. “But my point is… beating you up will not solve my problems, but you making Mareami peaceful for me, well…… that means a lot to me, Herb.” I held my hoof out, so I can have a bro-hoof, and he did so.

“So we cool now?” I asked.

“No, of course not! I just bro-hoofed you, and said that you did something that meant a lot to me, so no we’re not cool.” he said sarcastically. 

“Nice, I see you learned sarcasm!” I said and chuckled.

“Learn new stuff everyday, my friend! Learn new stuff everyday!” Flare said and nodded. “But I’ll need all the lunch money back that you stole from me.

“Of course!” I said.

“And one more thing: Swinebutt is coming after me.” Flare said.

“I figured.” I said. “He betrayed me too after I failed a mission he gave me.”

“Looks like Swinebutt is both of our to-do list’s, huh?” Flare asked.

“My gang will do all they can, if they see him around these parts, we’ll teach him a lesson he’ll never forget!” I said. “But mainly, I’m keeping watch of my pop. He’s our gang’s main problem.”

“Thanks, Herb! You’re really an unexpecting ally, you know that?” Flare asked.

“Sometimes if you think somepony is mean to you, they always have a reason. Maybe they might be a trusted ally someday.” I said. “Do all bullies really want to be bullies? Or are they only that way because of a stupid reason?”

“That will be a letter for Princess Luna!” Flare said.

“Oh, you know Luna?” I asked.

“Yeppers!” Flare said. “Now listen, I better get back to hotel and get ready for the award ceremony!”

“Oh yeah, you were nominated for best pizza restaurant! Congratulations, Flare! I see your life outside of Mareami really paid off!” I said impressively.

“I’ll need a ride though, and protection from the Sharks.” Flare requested.

“At your service! Would you like to meet the leader of our gang?” I asked.

“Sure.” He said.

“I’m actually a co-leader, I run this gang along with our founder. Poni?” Herb yelled out. 

Poni walked over to me and asked, “Yeah, yeah, what is it Leafhorn?”

“Flare, this is our don, Poni Cipriani!” I introduced him.

“Hey I’m Poni Cipriani!” Poni said and nodded.

“Heheh! GTA reference!” Flare chuckled.

“Oh, wiseguy, huh?” Poni asked, taking off his sunglasses.

“Sure am!” Flare said.

“Ah, capieche!” Poni nodded. “I like wiseguys. I tolerate them. Wiseguys make the world go ‘round, know what I mean?”

“Anyways, I better get ready for the awards.” Flare said. So we did what he wanted. We brought Flare back to his hotel so he could get ready for the awards ceremony. As I expected, Flare was nominated and won for best pizza restaurant. Hey, you expected it too, right? You probably read his story before reading mine, so everything that happened on this chapter, you pretty much expected. That is, unless you read this first, in that case, this is all new for you.

After the rest of today and tomorrow, Flare and his friends were ready to head back home to Ponyville, but I had one more conversation with him before he left with his friends on the limo back to the airport. “I’ll tell you something , Twilight. My tanning days are over!” the purple dragon said.

“No kidding!” the purple unicorn said and giggled.

“Don’t peel off any skin in the limo, eh?” the limo driver advised the dragon.
.
“I can’t believe you’re already leaving.” Flare’s mom said very sadly to Flare.

“Hey, we’ll be back very soon, mom! I promise!” Water promised.

“Now that I know I have friends here, and I’ll be safe from harm, I should be coming back a lot more often now!” Flare said.

“I’m just…. It’s like you JUST got here.” Flare’s mom said.

“Mom….” Water said in a comforting tone and then both her and Flare hugged her.

“We’ll call you everyday! Just…. be strong!” Flare advised her.

“I’ll be fine, Flarey. It’s you I’m worried about.” Flare’s mom said.

“I’ll be fine, mom! I promise!” Flare said.

“You better not break that promise! Or you’re dead!” his mom threatened.

“I love you too, mom!” Flare said smiling at her.

“I love you so much, just checking, poke.” Flare’s mom said with her hoof out.

“I love you so much, just checking, poke too.” Flare said as I poked my mom’s hoof.

“Be safe, son! Keep that shop alive!” Flare’s dad advised him.

“Don’t worry, dad! I even expanded! I’ll expand here too! Don’t you worry!” Flare said.

“Are you sure you wanna go, Flare? You don’t have to. We’ll make sure you stay safe! You can join our gang, and keep the peace!” I suggested to him.

“We’re always open for new members!” Poni said.

“Thanks, brahs, but…. Mareami will always be my home! I would never abandon it! Mareami will always be my motherland!” Flare said.

“Listen to him, he sounds Russian.” The blue icy-colored pegasus teased and chuckled.

“But you see, Ponyville’s my home now, and I made a lot of friends already! I can’t just leave them!” Flare said.

“You can’t just leave us either you know!” Flare’s mom said.

“She’s got a point there.” I nodded.

“I know, but I already set up everything there. But I promise, Pinkie promise, that’ll be back!” Flare said, crossing his heart and then placing his hoof on his eye.

“Pinkie promise?” Poni asked.

“I MADE THAT UP!” the pink hyper pony said as she hopped in place.

“I see.” Poni nodded.

“Alright, Flare, but remember, if you need us, we’ll be here…. waiting for ya!” I said as I winked at him.

“Thanks, Herb! Kick your dad’s flank!” Flare advised him.

“HEY! Don’t talk about my dad that way!” I yelled at him angrily.

“What?” Flare asked curiously.

I then laughed. “I’m messing with ya, c’mon!”

“HA! You got me, man!” Flare chuckled.

"Well Flare, how about you make like a tree, and get outta here?" I asked.

"How many times do I have to remind you? It's 'make like a tree' and 'LEAVE'!" Flare corrected me.

"I don't get it!" I yelled.

"Leave sounds like 'leaf', and trees have leaves." Flare informed me.

"Oooooooh! Makes much more sense now." I said and chuckled.

"Really, Herb? Does it?" Flare asked sarcastically.

"Perhaps." I said. He just stared at me, gave me a look, and then he let out two dog pant laughs that sounded like a sarcastic laugh. 

“See ya around, Flare!” I said.

“Don’t be a stranger now.” Poni said.

“Be safe!” Flare’s mom said, hugging him.

“I’ll be great! Very great!” Flare promised.

“Not correct grammar, Flare.” the purple unicorn corrected him.

“Don’t ruin the moment Twilight.” Flare instructed her.

“Well…. catch you all on the flipside! Kay thanks bye!” Flare said as he stepped into the limo and took a seat.

“Remember: the Friendship Mafia will always be there to accept any favors, if you ever need us.” I reminded him.

“WAIT UP!” the purple pegasus that I thought was attractive yelled, as he ran out of the hotel and hoped into the limo, being chased by some maid.



“NO, NO! TIME OUT, NOW!” the maid yelled out.

“GET US OUT OF HERE! NOW!” the purple pony yelled. So the limo started driving back to Mareami International Airport. Flare’s family, Poni, and I all waved goodbye as the limo drove to the Airport.

“You did it, kid!” Poni said to me. “You finally made peace with him! Mission accomplished!”

“Yeah but now there’s something else bothering me.” I said.

“And what might that be, my boy?” Poni asked.

“Autumn, my brother, he said something about my pop havin’ a new plan that we won’t be able to beat the Sharks at, and not even the FDA or the DIF could stop them.” I said.

“Wow… that must be serious.” Poni said.

“You think?” I asked sarcastically.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! No need to get all antsy on me, kid! Look we’ll be fine. We’ll just be keepin’ a closer eye on the Sharks.” Poni said.

“They also know you’re not out of town.” I informed him.

“I figured that.” Poni said. “I mean, why else am I outside right now? C’mon, Herb! Get with the program!”

“Autumn also said you better watch your back.” I informed him.

“I’m always watchin’ my back, kid, don’t worry.” Poni said. “Now let’s head back to HQ and celebrate! Or maybe we could go to the mall real quick and pick up one of those free samples at the food court!”