//------------------------------//
// Episode 15: Rarity Investigates! 
// Story: My Little Pony Mystic Season 1 
// by Shadow Master 
//------------------------------//

At the Canterlot Boutique...

Sassy Saddles was settling with some customers in taking the bits while giving them the bags of the clothes. The business at Canterlot went well especially the marketing manager who handled with Rules of Rarity well. 

Rarity marched into the lobby with levitating the new collection of manikins' clothes - British Detective suit, Egyptian white formal dress and Manehattan Casual Dress.

"Oh, Sassy Saddles, don't you just love my new Femme Mystique Chic line of gowns?" Rarity smiled happily.

Sassy Saddles gasped upon looking at the new collection, "Sequins and sashes, Rarity, they're exquisite! Where in Equestria did you find the inspiration?"

Rarity nodded as she levitated three collection on the display window. Sassy Saddles emerged and looked at the new collection of dresses.

"Oh, I modeled them after the adventures of Shadow Spade. Her stories are always full of mystery and suspense and, best of all..." Rarity explained as she placed the manikins properly before the window, "fabulous costumes! Shadow Spade believes it all comes down to attention to detail. And so do I. There!"

Sassy Saddles smiled, "They're perfect!"

The door was opened but slammed to the walls hard, causing all of the manikins with clothes to fall on the squealing girls. The customer entered. She was none other than Rainbow Dash. She was surprised as she spotted the angry unicorns glaring at her. The Pegasus realized why they glared at her.

Rainbow Dash laughed nervously, "My bad."

An hour later, Rainbow Dash helped her friends in cleaning up the messes and put the manikin and the dresses back to the places. They were all cleaned and organized.

"Sorry I messed up your dress thingy." Rainbow Dash apologized.

Sassy Saddles smiled as she returned to the counter, "Nothing we can't fix in a stitch. What are you doing in Canterlot?"

Rainbow Dash smiled and replied, "I'm here for Princess Celestia's royal garden opening tomorrow."

Sassy Saddles gasped as she settled some fabric and silks properly on her counter, "Oh, yes! Rumor has it the gardens are especially lush this season. I heard that the Wonderbolts will be kicking things off with an aerial display. And not to mention, Princess Celestia invited Lord Azure Phoenix and his fierce and mighty Seven Phoenix Generals for their latest demonstration."

Rarity nodded in agreement, "You heard right. And Rainbow Dash is here to fly with them. So exciting!"

"Well, kind of exciting. Technically, I'm not flying." Rainbow Dash explained sheepishly, "I'm just the lucky Reserve who was called in to be the backup flyer in case a Wonderbolt can't perform."

"Oh, don't be so modest. Out of all the Reserves, you were the one chosen."

"It is pretty sweet. And I do get to stay in the castle, hang out with the Wonderbolts, and eat awesome food at the dinner tonight. And not to mention, Blaze and Lax will be there since they're one of Seven Phoenix Generals. Speaking of the dinner, you're still coming, right?"

Rarity gasped as she looked at her Shadow Spade Collection, "Heavens, yes! A chance to dress up, be charming and show off my newest femme mystique couture? I wouldn't miss it for all of Equestria."

Rainbow Dash smiled, "Great! See ya tonight!"

Rainbow Dash flew and exited the door while slammed the door in closing! The Shadow Spade Collection were about to fall! Rarity and Sassy Saddles used their magic in holding and stabilizing them from falling. After the aftershock, they all sighed in relief that the collection is safe.

BANG! The door got slammed while Shadow Spade collection fell down. Rarity groaned in anger as she turned and about to scold Rainbow Dash for being careless! She stopped as she saw three familiar gang while holding the package.

"HUH?! DJ Red?! Clumsy Rat?! Shades?! What are you doing here?!" Rarity asked in surprise and shocked.

DJ Red shrugged, "Doing our job, duh. That's what we always do for daily life." 

Clumsy Rat nodded, "Yeah... Ever since the end of Mystic War Three, we've been looking around the town, states and country to find a job. Well... Mostly temporary jobs from around the Equestria."

Shades held the package, "Here's the package."

"Ooh, the rhinestones I ordered!" Rarity smiled happily as she levitated the package. She opened it. She was in shock and upset as she levitated the greenish and pinkish pale crystals, "Oh, my. Oh, there's been a mistake... I ordered dragon-cut stones, and these are hoof-polished."

DJ Red shrugged, "Hey, don't look at us. We do our jobs. We take and deliver."

Clumsy nodded in agreement, "And no peeking on the package. The Mail Pony Boss ain't happy if we took the peek on any packages."

Shades sighed as he held the paperclip up, "I'm not sure we have time to redo your order. We've got quite lots of them lately."

Rarity smirked slyly as she has the idea in changing Dark Warrior Trio's minds. She flipped her back mane gently while giving an lady eyelash winked at them. They yelped in surprise while blushed as they stared and looked at her.

Rarity sighed, "Of course you all don't. Your job is so difficult. Honestly, I don't know how you three keep all of those orders straight."

Dark Warriors Trio smiled sheepishly while rubbing their back head gently.

DJ Red chuckled, "It is pretty tough, what with the boxes all being... box-shaped."

"Oh, y—oh yes, and I very much appreciate it." Rarity smiled and said slyly and gracefully as she gently approached while nuzzled the surprised three stallions and giving them her 'beautiful lady's begging' eyes, "But if there was any way you could squeeze in one more little delivery, I would be eternally grateful."

"Oh... I think we'd better do it for her," Clumsy suggested while blushed, "She's too sweet..."

Shade blushed while laughed nervously, "Yeah... After all, a friend of Shadow Dragon is the friend of ours."

DJ Red nodded in agreement, "Well... For you, Rarity, we'll see what we can do."

Clumsy Rat carried the box up as he and his buddies left the building. They approached to their wagon as they set things off and headed off. 

Rarity smiled in relief as she closed the door. She turned and found the surprised Sassy Saddles approached her.

"Rarity, you could sweet-talk a filly out of candy!" Sassy Saddles commented.

"Oh," Rarity chuckled uneasily as she approached to her curtain area, "it was nothing. Those three are Shadow Dragon's loyal and good minions. Nopony minds a compliment. Now, you simply must help me pick out an outfit for tonight. Something from the new collection, of course."

Sassy Saddles smiled and nodded as she took some of Shadow Spade collection for Rarity to try and dress. The white unicorn wanted her dress to perfect and beautiful for her best friend's tonight party.





At the Canterlot Dining Hall, Princess Celestia have invited all of Wonderbolts and even her former love - Azure Phoenix and his Seven Phoenix Generals for eating, drinking, chatting and partying with each other. Both Equestria Kingdom and Imperial Phoenix Kingdom were getting along well with each other. Both the rulers smiled in relief yet grateful as well.

Princess Celestia turned and looked at Azure Phoenix, "Thank you for accepting my invitation for the party, practice day and military formation day, Lord Azure. I appreciate it very much."

Azure Phoenix smiled and nodded, "What old friends are for. That would be dishonoring monument day. We've been on this since the day of our youngest one was born as well as your elite flying squadron."

"Indeed... This day is very important to both of us and Iris Crystal."

"Yes, this was more than just aerial display but to test their skills, endurance, faith, loyalties, disciplines and comradeship for both our forces. Iris Crystal enjoyed watching this a lot. She loved flying too as well. She's amazing Pegasus among the Equestria."

"Yes, she is. She enjoyed it a lot. She was but always be the Wonderbolt member. That is why she was known as the Princess of Sky Hope."

Rainbow Dash and Rarity dressed in her white Egyptian Dress entered the Dining Hall. They were both amazed and surprised to see how good and beautiful the party decoration is. They even found both Blazefist and Shorty Thinking were talking with each other. The girls approached the Mystic Ponies at once.

"Rarity, Rainbow Dash," Shorty called in surprised as he turned and smiled at the girls, "It's great to see you here."

Blazefist nodded, "Yeah... So, you're ready for tomorrow practice? I heard Wonderbolts want to show their latest moves for us to watch."

"Well... I'm just substitute for the team," Rainbow Dash explained with a bit of chuckle, "But I'm ready for tomorrow. I'm so excited to see all my favorite Wonderbolts there! I'm 100% support for them and you guys too!"

Blazefist smirked as he and Rainbow Dash gave each other a high hooves, "Thanks. Don't get cocky."

"She seems exciting about this," Shorty remarked.

Rarity smiled and nodded, "I'm pretty sure she does. After all; going to Wonderbolt Academy, rivaled against them during Equestria Games and now flying together with them is what she dream of."

"Come on. Let's grab some grubs!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

As four friends headed to the banquet, they collected and held the plates up as they began taking the food up. Suddenly, Rarity sniffed as if something attracted her attention.

"Mm, is that Juniper Phoenix I smell?"

"Yeah, Juniper Phoenix is one of my favorite stallion colognes." The veteran voice answered.

Rarity looked up as she encountered both the cyan Pegasus with gray gentle short mane and tail at his 50s dressed in his flying-dog pilot's suit with the white scarf. He was with the black yet fierce veteran humanoid dragon with strong wings and two antler's horns worn the navy Chinese Imperial Phoenix Armor.

"Oh, mine as well. It's masculine and yet—" Rarity explained. 

Rainbow Dash yelped while opened her mouth as she dropped her plate to pieces on the ground. She flew towards Rarity as she shushed the latter up.

"Rarity! Don't you know who this is?!" Rainbow Dash asked in annoyance. Rarity shrugged innocently. She groaned, "It's Wind Rider! He's a living legend. He holds the Wonderbolt record in the Mustang Marathon!"

Rainbow Dash stared and glanced at Wind Rider with a blush and happily eyes. She truly admired him so much as other Wonderbolts.

"Well, that was a long time ago. Honestly, I can't believe I still hold the record." Wind Rider smiled. He turned to the dragon, "And by the way, this is my biggest but friendly rival - Strict Stalker."

Strict Stalker bowed, "I am honored to meet you all."

"Huh? But he's a dragon..." Rainbow Dash said in shock.

Rainbow Dash yelped painfully as she got her head whacked. She turned and found the angry Blazefist glaring at her.

"Strict Stalker is the Phoenix's Trident and General for training the Military Army! And that dragon is one of Seven Phoenix Generals too, Rainbow Dash!" Blazefist explained in annoyance, "He's been on Azure Phoenix's side since the Civil War of Ma began. He is the strictest, serious and hardcore general to work with. And whatever happens, don't make him angry. He hates failures, disrespectful and disobedience in the military army. He will punish and execute them."

"Yeesh... What's with execution? We don't punish by killing them."

"Sorry about that, Dash. But that's his way to discipline and strengthening the military army for Imperial Phoenix Army."

"And by the way, may I know about the Seven Phoenix Generals? Sounds like you and your bro are famous but why does he gets the lowest rank?"

Blazefist sighed as he explained while pointed at some ponies who are members of Seven Phoenix Generals. He first pointed at two brothers - One-Eyed Anger was talking with Navy Arrow the younger Unicorn one with brownish yet hairy mustache and beard dressed in blue general armor and phoenix's helmet-like.

"Those two are brothers but also cousins to Lord Azure Phoenix. The guy with eye patch - General Anger the Phoenix's Sword is the Second-in-Command of Imperial Phoenix Army and Azure Phoenix's right-hand. He's very fierce, tempered and no nonsense general but he's a great determined, loyal and inspired general. And believe me, you do not want to mess with him especially talking about his left eye. He was nicknamed as 'One-Eyed Anger' for losing his eye but able to fight well. 

The younger one is Navy Arrow the Phoenix's Arrow - Anger's brother. Navy's also the General of Ma Chang An and Imperial Phoenix Archers. While he's gentle, friendly and playful in encouraging others to rise up to challenge; this guy's very good at archery and shooting guns. He doesn't miss a shot. But of course, he's like Anger - fierce and tempered when it comes to job."

Blazefist pointed at Clawdestroyer talking with Axen the Unicorn in 30s with white turban dressed in bluish armor with robes.

"I'm sure you met the Griffon - Clawdestroyer the Phoenix's Claw. He's the General of Imperial Griffon Scouts and Northern Griffon. You saw his anger, rage and determination in winning the war but he's faithful, loyal and caring general too. And whatever you do, don't test his patient and rage.

Axen is Phoenix's Axe and also General of Imperial Cavalry Unit. Axen is very honorable, humble, loyal and fair general but dedicated to his duty and Imperial Phoenix Army as well. So, if you think about cheating or tricking him, he has a bad temper about it."

Blazefist turned and pointed at Laxtinct talking with Bladestrike while eating their food. 

"That's Bladestrike - the Phoenix's Blade. He's the Fierce General of Eastern Fort. And above all, he's my mentor and adopted father. He used to work for Devil Destroyer but got spared and recruited him because Lord Azure Phoenix saw some potential within him. Bladestrike is dedicated, serious, firm, fearless and bravest general we ever had. He inspired all and even me to be brave and endured all the hardship and struggles against the enemies. He's the best though have the bad temper.

You know me and Laxtinct well. I was known as the Phoenix's Flame and General of Blazing Squadron while Laxtinct is the Phoenix's Fist and General of Stone Armor Squadron. And the reason he demoted because he made lots of mistakes. And I've lost track of what rank he's now. That'd be all."

"Wow... What's with temper?" Rainbow Dash asked in concern.

Shorty Thinking shrugged, "That is to show their fierce, determination and prowess of how powerful and dangerous they can be. I know that because Water Tiger Kingdom have been war with Imperial Phoenix Kingdom for a hundred year during Princess Lauren's Reign."

"Wind Rider, I see you met Rainbow Dash!" The tomboyish girl's voice called. Everyone turned and found both Spitfire and Misty Fly entered the scene. Spitfire smiled, "She's one of our most promising Reserves. She just might beat your record."

Wind Rider hummed in concern as he turned and looked at Rainbow Dash, "Really now?"

Strict Stalker nodded in amusement, "Interesting..."

"Oh, heh, I'm nowhere near as good as you." Rainbow Dash insisted, "I mean, I'm fast, but I don't have the endurance to go long distances."

"Ah, don't be modest. A little practice and you'll be beating records in no time." Spitfire commented.

Wind Rider smiled a bit as he walked away, "Heh-heh. Well, it's nice to meet you fillies."

Strict Stalker turned and glared at Wind Rider for the moment. Both Shorty Thinking and Rarity noticed the behavior and attitude from two veteran officers from both kingdoms. Something is off...

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Not as nice as it is to meet you, sir." She turned to her friends. She then barely-contained her laugh, "I can't believe I just met Wind Rider!"

Misty Fly smiled, "Yeah, he's coming out of retirement to take the spot of honor in the center of our aerial flower formation tomorrow."

Rainbow Dash gasped as she held Misty Fly's chest, "Really? That's incredible!" 

Rainbow Dash departed as she glanced at Wind Rider kissed Princess Celestia's hoof gently while Azure Phoenix and Strict Stalker stood behind her. As Spitfire and Misty Fly left the rest, Rainbow Dash sighed in upset while the rest looked at her.

"Guess I'll just watch Wind Rider being awesome from the sidelines..." Rainbow Dash said in disappointment, "Practice tomorrow is gonna be so boring."

"Sorry, Dash about this," Blazefist patted Rainbow Dash's back.

Rarity took a sip of her drink, "I don't suppose I could keep you company?"

"I remember that Wonderbolts allowed everyone especially friends and family in. Is that right?" Shorty Thinking asked in amusement. 

"You could!" Rainbow Dash said in surprise, They always let friends and family come watch practices! Thanks, guys!"

Rarity smiled, "That's what friends are for. Come. Let's enjoy our meal and get some sleep."

With everyone nodded, they all headed out and enjoyed their dinner. Strict Stalker hummed while looking at Wind Rider, and then to Rainbow Dash. Why was he staring at two of them?





On the next day...

Both Wondercolts and Seven Phoenix Generals were training together at the Canterlot's Stadium which located near to the cliff's edge. Wonderbolts were training on midair neared to the stadium. Seven Phoenix Generals were training their military style and skills at the training ground from the stadium's southern part. 

Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Shorty Thinking just finished their watch at Seven Phoenix Generals' training as they headed to Air Stadium. They all taken the seat and watched the Wonderbolts' training. While Rainbow Dash and Shorty Thinking were watching the event, Rarity was putting some sun lotion on her skin.

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Thanks for keeping me company, guys. If you all weren't here, well, I don't know who I'd be talking to right now."

Rarity playfully put her lotion on Rainbow Dash's nose. The daring Pegasus yelped in surprise. But instead of upset, she smiled happily as well as Rarity. Shorty smiled in amusement.

"Eh, you'd be talkin' to me." The calm yet cool voice spoke. Three ponies turned to their back as they found Soarin dressed in his uniform stood before them. He smiled happily while making Rainbow Dash blushed. He sighed. "Rainbow Dash, Spitfire's mom sent a message that she was sick. She had to leave to take care of her."

Rainbow Dash gasped, "Oh, no! I hope her mom's okay!"

"Me too. In the meantime, we need you to fly in her place."

"L-Like, in the actual show?"

"Unless Spitfire comes back, yes."

"I won't let you down, Soarin!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she hugged Soarin tightly and passionately. She yelped as she departed and saluted to him. She squealed happily as she flew straight up to the sky while making her goofy and funky dancing moves, "This is the best thing ever! 

Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! I'm gonna get to fly with Wind Rider and the Wonderbolts, 'cause I'm the bestest and I'm awesome and they know it! Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh..."

"Uh... Rainbow Dash?" Soarin said in concern.

Rarity shushed, "Shh! Let her have this, darling."

"By the way.... Why didn't you let her join Wonderbolts?" Shorty asked curiously, "She was the War Heroine from Third Mystic War. She deserve it."

Soarin sighed, "Spitfire and I did. But Rainbow Dash insisted that she passed the exams and training through the Academy fairly like the rest. For a pony who wanted to be part of Wonderbolts, she seems cool about waiting to reach her top. She's awesome."

Rarity smiled, "That's her alright. Friends and fair before her dream."

For the moment later, Rainbow Dash joined in the Wonderbolt's Training. She was flying close to Wind Rider as they flying together. Each time she flew ahead while waving to her friends, he groaned in upset as he quickly flapped his wing to move ahead.

On the stadium's seats, Blazefist climbed up from the stairs as he was still wearing his Phoenix General's armor and red scarf. He then meet up with the rest of his friends while spotted Rainbow Dash flying and training together with Wonderbolts. He whistled.

"Well, what do you know? She did it. I guess Spitfire really did left to take care of her mum," Blazefist said in surprise.

Shorty smiled, "Yes... How did you know?"

"Rumors..." 

Rarity spotted an older mare in her 40s or 50s looked like Spitfire but her Cutie Mark is blazing falcon-like symbol put with bit of makeup, pearls, earrings and dressed in her purple suit took her sit.

Rarity greeted, "Hello there! Friend or family?"

"Family. My daughter's a Wonderbolt," The older mare smiled. She looked around on the sky while showing her concern looks, "but I don't see her up there. Do you know Spitfire?"

"Ooh, you're Spitfire's mum?" Rarity said in surprise. Her eyes widened in shock as she realized something amiss, "But I thought you were sick."

"What?"

"Well, Spitfire got a note from you saying you weren't feeling well, and she went home to take care of you."

Spitfire's Mum replied in concern, "I didn't send a note."

Rarity hummed suspiciously, "That's so strange."

"Rarity, what's wrong?" Shorty Thinking asked in concern.

Rarity turned to both Shorty Thinking and Blazefist, "Something is not right."

As Soarin was training, he spotted Spitfire's Mum chatting with three ponies. He stopped. He approached to the booth.

"Stormy Flare? Aren't you supposed to be sick?" Soarin asked in concern. The Wonderbolts stopped their training as they turned their attention to the booth. He asked, "'Kay, what's happening?"

"I don't know. But I do know I didn't send my daughter a note." Stormy Flare answered in concern.

Shorty hummed in concern, "Could somepony have sent Spitfire a fake note?"

"Who would do such a thing?" Misty Fly asked in concern.

Soarin hissed, "Somepony who wanted her out of the show, I suppose."

"Why would anypony want that?" Rainbow Dash asked in concern.

"Maybe so they could take her spot." Wind Rider answered firmly.

The Wonderbolts were in shock to hear. They knew who and what he was talking about. He was glaring at her. They and even Soarin glaring at her. Rainbow Dash gulped in concern as she looked scared and worried. Stormy Flare, Rarity, Blazefist and Shorty Thinking were in shock. All of them couldn't believe in their own eyes - Rainbow Dash is the suspect of sending Spitfire away?!





Everyone from the Air Stadium gathered at the Canterlot Stage as they all questioning and interrogating her about Spitfire. Strict Stalker was there when he was taking the break from his training.

"Me?! I would never do that to Spitfire! Why would you think it was me?" Rainbow Dash insisted innocently.

Blaze spoke angrily, "I did see you and Spitfire leave the dinner together."

Rainbow Dash protested, "We were room neighbors in the castle!"

"And you did say you'd do anything to fly with Wind Rider." Misty Fly asked suspiciously.

"Yeah, but I didn't mean anything." Rainbow Dash insisted.

"Spitfire came by my room and told me she had to go see her mom at around midnight. Where were you then?" Soarin asked suspiciously.

"I was asleep at midnight..." Rainbow Dash answered, "-having this totally amazing dream. There I was at the arena flying with Wind Rider and the Wonderbolts, like I've always wanted to—" Rainbow Dash stopped in realization, "—ah, eh, never mind. Not helping."

Wonderbolts gathered up as they chatted with each other about Rainbow Dash. What should they do with her?

Soarin sighed as he turned to his love, "Rainbow Dash, if you can prove that somepony else is behind Spitfire's disappearance before the start of the show, then you can still fly with us. I have to warn you, if you sent that letter, the bylaws are clear. I'd have no choice but to ban you from the Wonderbolts forever. Understand?"

Rainbow Dash sighed in upset, "I understand..."

"How dare you say that?!" Blazefist demanded in anger while glaring at Soarin. He continued, "Rainbow Dash would never do such a thing! She's more than just heroine, she's your girlfriend, your comrade and your friend as well as Spitfire's! You should know that! How dare you accuse her like that?!"

Soarin gulped in fear as he realized his mistake, "I-I-I-I I didn't mean it. Really! I knew she - but - I-I-I... I-Grr! I don't know! I want to believe Rainbow Dash never do such a thing! I really do! But everypony is pointing at her for sending Spitfire away. How can I prove her innocence?"

Blazefist sighed in concern, "I do. I did it."

Everyone looked concern and confuse, and even Strict Stalker and Wind Rider. What was Blazefist talking about?!

"I'm the one who send Spitfire away!" Blazefist answered firmly. Everyone gasped in concern and worry of what they just heard. He continued, "I did it because... I want to help Rainbow Dash make her dream come true. She's my friend."

Everyone was dumbfounded and shocked to believe that. Rainbow Dash couldn't believe in her eyes and ears. Strict Stalker sighed in concern as he approached Blazefist.

"Blazefist... Do you know what this means?" Strict Stalker asked firmly. Blazefisy sighed and nodded firmly. The Dragon General sighed, "For deceiving to your officers and allies as well as sending our alliance's valuable commander away for the sake of your friend's dream, you must be punished. Your rank and privilege will not only stripped from you, you will be executed before the Imperial Phoenix Kingdom."

Everyone gasped in shock and concern. Strict Stalker can't be serious!

"You can't do this!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed in anger, "Blazefist doesn't deserve this!"

Strict Stalker turned and glared at Rainbow Dash, "Why?"

Rainbow Dash glared at Strict Stalker as she firmly answered, "Because he's my friend, like Aqua is to me. And I believe he didn't do it! Somepony did it to me, so Blazefist take the blame for me!"

"Rainbow Dash..." Blazefist said in shock.

Strict Stalker hummed, "If you believe that, then you have to find the evidence and prove it to me. I will reconsider Blazefist's punishment. However, if you failed, you too will share the same fate as Blazefist's. Understand?"

Rainbow Dash sighed, "Understood. I wish I knew how..."

"With us," The firm voice called. Everyone turned to their back as they found Shorty Thinking and Rarity dressed in her brown detective suit approached them. He continued, "We will help Rainbow Dash to find the evidence and proved her and Blazefist's innocence. We will find the culprit."

Rarity nodded, "We are going to get to the bottom of this faster than my costume change!"

Everyone stared at Rarity as they were all confused and concerned of what she just said and dress for...

"Rarity, what's with the dress?" Shorty Thinking asked in annoyance.

Rarity smiled, "Obviously, I am channeling Shadow Spade through these gorgeous garments, and she would say that the best way to prove that you didn't send the letter is to find out whoever did."

Everyone remained silent while glancing at Rarity in shock, surprise, concern and felt no confidence. Is she really serious about being detective?

"I'm doom..." Blazefist remarked while lowered his head down.

Shorty Thinking approached and patted Blazefist's back, "Don't worry. We'll find the culprit. I promised."

Blazefist sighed, "I hope so..."

"Why did you do it? I know you're lying to save me from getting kick out from Wonderbolt Academy," Rainbow Dash said in concern as she approached him, "But you don't have to do it for me. Now your life is in danger..."

Blazefist smiled as he patted Rainbow Dash's mane, "Don't worry about me. I survive the worst. There's nothing I can't handle. And I have confidence that you'll prove to everyone you're not the culprit behind this."

Rainbow Dash smiled, "Yeah, I guess so..."

"Misty Fly, Blaze, head over to Stormy Flare's house and try to find Spitfire and bring her back." Soarin ordered both Misty Fly and Blaze who saluted to him. He turned to Rainbow Dash, "Rainbow Dash, good luck. And sorry about this."

Rainbow Dash nodded, "Alright. I hope Spitfire is fine."

Soarin nodded, "Me too..."

"Now that we are done. First stop –" Rarity smirked proudly as she galloped at once, "-the scene of the crime!"





"We had a long road ahead of us, Rainbow Dash and I. Well, not too long because we didn't have much time, but the point is... I was up for the challenge." Rarity narrated.

Shorty Thinking, Rarity and Rainbow Dash were walking across the hallway of Canterlot Castle as they were on the case of finding the evidence, prove Rainbow Dash and Blazefist's innocence, exposed the culprit and located Spitfire.

Three ponies entered Spitfire's bedroom as they inspected and investigated it. Rainbow looked through some drawers. Shorty Thinking looked through the bed and cupboard. Rarity used her magnifying glass on the floor in finding some pieces. They were looking for clues.

"There I was, surveying the crime scene, and looking très chic while doing it." Rarity narrated. As she turned to the door again, she spotted the envelope. She approached and levitated it, "This must be the envelope for the letter Spitfire got!"

As Rarity took a sniff on the letter, Shorty Thinking gasped in surprise. Everyone turned to him at once. He levitated the small piece of rainbow mane.

"Rainbow Mane..." Shorty Thinking said firmly and seriously, "Very rare of have one..."

Rainbow Dash gulped, "That's not good..."

As Rainbow Dash flew away, Rarity approached and gave the letter to Shorty Thinking as he kept them both in separated plastic bags. He examined them all carefully as he doesn't want to make mistakes/ Rarity turned and glanced at saddened and upset Rainbow Dash.

Three ponies exited Spitfire's room as they walked across the hallway.

Rarity narrated, "Rainbow Dash was getting antsy, but I had faith I could clear her name and find the real culprit. In order to solve the mystery, we had to be focused. Driven. One hundred percent in the—"

Rarity gasped upon looking at the curtains - one was folded up with the rope-holder while another was left out widely.

Rarity commented, "The damask pattern on these curtains is exquisite! Oh, and this velvet rope-holder – oh, it's just—"

"We don't have time to look at the décor!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed in annoyance, "They're gonna kick me out of the Wonderbolts and worst - Imperial Phoenix Kingdom will kill Blaze unless we solve this thing!"

Shorty sighed in concern, "Rainbow's right. This is not the time to think about the fabric."

"I know. We're on this case like a charm on a bracelet!" Rarity said confidently as she walked away from the curtain. Her friends followed her as they listened to what she has to say. She continued, "Here's what I'm thinking: somepony had to bring Spitfire that letter, which means somepony must have seen them!"

Rarity pointed at three Royal Guards. Both Rainbow Dash and Shorty Thinking looked at each other as they nodded in agreement. Rarity's right. The Royal Guards know who the pony sent the letter to Spitfire...





"Where were you on the night of last night at midnight?!" Rainbow Dash demanded in anger.

Shorty Thinking and Rarity asked and brought the Royal Guards in the hidden room for some questions about Spitfire and someone who send the letter to her about Stormy Flare being sick.

"We were here, guarding the hallway entrance like we were supposed to." Castle Guard #1 answered. Rainbow Dash raised her eyebrow and glared at him. He sighed, "I'm telling you, we were there all night, and no one went in or out of that hallway."

"Except for you." Castle Guard #2 added. Rainbow Dash growled in annoyance yet angered as she glared at him. He yelped, "Just that there are only two rooms in the northwest wing: yours and Spitfire's. So the only other pony who had access to that wing was you."

Rainbow Dash was in shock yet feared. She was being accused that she was the only one who entered the wing, other than Spitfire. This have make her as number one suspect. How is it possible?!

"So much for being good cop, bad cop," Shorty remarked in concern.

Rarity hummed as she narrated, "The waters were getting choppy. Rainbow Dash's tactics were, well, horrid. It was time for another approach." 

"Perhaps I should take it from here!" Rarity called.

Everyone turned their attention to Rarity as they all gasped. Rarity smiled as she was in Manehattan Dress while sitting on her sofa with good-looking and beautiful attitude. She winked at the surprised Royal Guards. She approached to them gently and gracefully.

"You castle guards have such a difficult job. I'm guessing that at times it can be rather..." Rarity said as she closed to the first Castle Guard's ear, "boring."

Castle Guard #1 gulped, "It is. I've counted all three hundred and forty five bolts in the ceiling tiles two hundred and ninety three times!"

"And of course being a castle guard can be thankless work. I'm not saying you did, but if you took a break, you more than deserved it."

Castle Guard #1 grunted, "Oh, you're right. We don't get a lot of recognition for what we do."

"Except for last night when somepony was nice enough to leave a cake for us. So we did take one little break when we ate that cake." Castle Guard #2 added.

Shorty hummed, "What kind of cake was it? Full details about it!"

Castle Guard #1 & #2 answered together, "Cherry with a custard filling with chocolate frosting!"

"Was the base of the cake decorated with buttercream rosettes?" Rarity asked.

Castle Guard #1 nodded, "It was."

Rainbow Dash groaned, "What's that gotta to do with the crimes?! This is waste of my time!"

Shorty sighed, "Be patient, Rainbow Dash. Analyzing and solving the crime takes some time. We cannot simply jump into wrong conclusion."

"I mean, even I think I'm guilty at this point! I really did want to fly in that show!" Rainbow Dash said in concern, "What if I wrote that note when I was asleep?! Do you know what I do when I sleep?! Because I sure don't!"

"Oh, calm down, Rainbow Dash. We'll get to the bottom of this." Rarity said confidently as she turned and exited the room, "There's only one bakery in Canterlot that makes a chocolate cherry cake with custard filling and buttercream frosting rosettes and that's..."





"...Cinnamon Chai's Tea and Cake Shop!"

Shorty Thinking, Rarity and Rainbow Dash headed out to town as they headed to Cinnamon Chai's Tea and Cake Shop. Rarity was dressed in her white casual dress with a bow tie beneath her neck and a polka-dots on pinkish transparent layer skirt while her mane tied in ponytail. It must have some clues for them to find and learn who is culprit behind the mess. 

They spotted a lighted yellowish Unicorn with brownish mane and tail dressed with white apron and her Cutie Mark was the greenish cake and cake knife. She was cleaning the table. She must be the owner of the shop. They approached her.

Cinnamon Chai smiled and greeted, "Hello, how can I help you?"

"We've heard you have the best chocolate cherry custard cake with buttercream frosting rosettes in town!" Shorty said calmly.

Cinnamon Chai smiled while pointed at the glass window, "Ah, you travel in the right circles! We have the only chocolate cherry custard cake with buttercream frosting rosettes in town!"

As Rarity turned, she gasped upon looking at the window display. She saw the chocolate cake missing. Just like what the Royal Guard have described and even what Cinnamon Chai had said. This must be the place to start investigation!

"Oh, no. But somepony's already bought it!" Rarity turned to Cinnamon Chai, "Who was the lucky pony?"

"I can't even say!" Cinnamon Chai answered in concern as she began described, "because it was hard to tell! She was wearing a trench coat, sunglasses, and a scarf around her head that covered most of her face. But I do remember she had a really deep, raspy voice."

"What do you mean, raspy?" Rainbow Dash demanded angrily.

Cinnamon Chai looked surprise as she glanced at Rainbow Dash, "Well, kinda like yours."

Rainbow Dash gulped in concern as she feared that everypony in town and even her own team suspect that she is the one who sent the letter to send Spitfire away.

"This is no coincidence..." Shorty Thinking said suspiciously. He turned and glanced at Cinnamon Chai, "If there's anything else you can remember."

Cinnamon Chai smiled, "Well, have I got a story for you! The pony who bought the cake threw a big fit when she accidentally got chocolate ganache on her scarf!"

"That's terrible! What color was the scarf?" Rarity asked suspiciously.

"White! No, maybe more an ivory..."

"You don't say!"

"I can't believe you're talking fashion at a time like this!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed in anger.

Rarity turned to Rainbow Dash as she comforted her best friend, "Rainbow, don't panic. I need you to trust me."

"Trust you?! You've spent more time changing clothes than trying to help me! I'm doomed!"

"No, you're not! Come on!" Shorty Thinking said firmly, "We have finally figure things out! Everything is coming to sense!"

Rarity smiled, "Indeed. It is time to expose the culprit!"

As the rain poured on the town, three ponies returned to the Canterlot Castle.

"Rainbow Dash was obviously upset, but I had all my ducks in a row. Except one. She was not going to like it, but there was only one way to find out if my suspicions were correct."





At the Canterlot Castle...

Soarin and his remaining Wonderbolts were still waiting for news about Rainbow Dash's innocence and Spitfire's location. The Co-Leader was eating his pie whenever he's nervous and worried about his friends. Strict Stalker was there keeping an eye on Blazefist who sat on the treasure chest while Wind Rider and Stormy Flare were chatting.

As the door opened, both Blaze and Misty Fly entered the scene. Everyone turned to them both.

"We looked everywhere," Blaze reported in concern, "but Spitfire wasn't at her mom's house!"

"Where could she be?" Stormy Flare asked in concern.

The door was opened, everyone turned to the entrance as they saw three ponies entered. The lightning struck loudly.

"We have found the confirmed culprit!" Shorty Thinking exclaimed firmly. He approached to the middle as he sighed in defeat, "I'm sorry. Our suspicious has confirmed. And all the evidence we have found so far has been pointed at the pony from the start - Rainbow Dash!"

Everyone but Wind Rider and Strict Stalker gasped in shock and concern. Rainbow Dash looked down in guilt and shame. As she feared, the evidence have pointed at her and there's no clue of whom has framed her. Shorty Thinking never makes mistakes. Wind Rider smiled a bit at the event. Strict Stalker remained silent while looking angry at this.

"No... No way..." Blazefist said in shock.

Strict Stalker huffed, "You actually lied to me from the start, General Blazefist. I'm very disappointed. You knew it was her, didn't you?"

Blazefist sighed, "I didn't want to believe it. No way she did it. No way!"

"Objection! Rainbow Dash was framed from the start! Somepony did this. And that pony was none other than..." Rarity protested as she walked to the middle. Shorty glared at her. She continued as she pointed at him, "Wind Rider!"

As the lightning struck again, everyone gasped in surprise, shock and concern of what they just heard! Shorty firstly accused Rainbow Dash for the crimes but Rarity insisted that Wind Rider is the suspect of the crime?! Who is the true culprit?

Rainbow Dash groaned while slapped her face, "Rarity, I can't believe you would accuse Wind Rider of framing me! He's a living legend, for pony's sake!"

"All the evidence points to him!" Rarity said proudly.

Rainbow Dash grunted as she flipped Rarity's detective hat up, "Peh! What evidence could you possibly have? All you did was ask about cake, admire décor, and change outfits a gazillion times! Shorty found the real evidence! He accused me! And maybe he's right."

"Maybe... But let's hear the tale from her first. I might miss something..." Shorty said in amusement.

"I never believed you would send Spitfire away. When we found the rainbow hairs in Spitfire's room, I could tell they didn't fall out. They..." Rarity explained as she levitated the plastic bag of Rainbow Mane, "were cut! Nopony loses hair in a chunk. And look at the ends. It's a straight line! They were clearly cut with shears, which means somepony planted it!" 

Blazefist and Wonderbolts were in shock and concern about it while Strict Stalker and Wind Rider remained silent for the moment. Rarity was right about the mane!

Rarity explained, "Then when we were examining Spitfire's room, I smelled something on the envelope. Juniper Phoenix, Wind Rider's cologne of choice! Then, in the castle hallway, I noticed some of the damask curtains fell out of their velvet rope-holder, indicating that somepony had been hiding behind them! Perhaps after they dropped off the fake letter?"

"Juniper Phoenix is a very popular fragrance, and anypony could have moved those curtains." Wind Rider said calmly.

"Precisely why I questioned the castle guards! They were at their post at the entrance to the hallway all night, except for a small window of time when somepony brought them cake." Rarity explained firmly, "A cake that was ordered by a girl pony with a raspy voice!"

Rarity approached Wind Rider as she looked closely at Wind Rider's scarf tied in tight Windsor knot, "Whoever ordered the cake got a chocolate stain on her ivory scarf, and I couldn't help but notice that Wind Rider's scarf is tied in a tight Windsor knot instead of its usual loose slipknot! And why is that? Is it to hide the chocolate stain?!"

As Rarity unfolded and untied Wind Rider's scarf, it revealed the chocolate stain on her scarf. Everyone but Strict Stalker gasped in shock and concern of the case.

Wind Rider grunted as he flew towards his teammates, "Ah, this is preposterous. Wonderbolts, you don't believe a word of this, right?"

"There is one more thing to prove you are guilty. You knew about this, didn't you..." Rarity asked suspiciously as she slowly turned to Strict Stalker. She glared at him, "The Phoenix's Trident - General Strict Stalker!"

Everyone gasped in shock and surprise of what they just heard. Strict Stalker knew about Wind Rider's crimes as well as both Blazefist's and Rainbow Dash's innocence from the start. Both Blazefist and Rainbow Dash stared at him.

Strict Stalker sighed before took a deep breathe, "Yes... Wind Rider is the one who framed Rainbow Dash to send Spitfire away."

Blazefist was in shock as he asked, "That's why you asked me to check on Rainbow Dash. You knew I would defend her if I didn't come with them! Why didn't you tell us about Wind Rider?!"

"I could tell you about this, but what would the witnesses or the team say otherwise?"

"No one will believe in you. Witnesses have different point-of-view of what really happened. The team will support and protect theirs from troubles. Either way, Rainbow Dash will be guilty without the proof and witness."

"Yes. But now... All evidence and witness have pointed at him."

"Indeed it is," Shorty Thinking nodded firmly. Everyone but Rarity looked at him. He spoke, "Yes, I also knew it was Wind Rider. I pretended to believe it was Rainbow Dash while Rarity provide all the evidence she have found about Wind Rider. So I can see his reaction. We were right."

Rarity nodded firmly as she glared at Wind Rider, "Just admit it – you're as guilty of framing Rainbow Dash as you are of ruining that ivory scarf!"

Wind Rider groaned in defeat, "Ah, fine! You caught me! I did it!"

Rainbow Dash was stunned as she asked, "Why?"

"Because he was afraid that you would break his long-distance Wonderbolt record! And he won't have the chance to beat his rival to the ground when it comes to race," Shorty Thinking explained.

Rarity nodded, "I heard him when Spitfire said you were close to breaking his record. He said, and I quote, 'Heh-heh'. That's the polite but disingenuous laugh you make when you want to seem happy but really you're not."

Wind Rider huffed, "I thought if I could get Rainbow Dash kicked out of the Wonderbolts forever, my record could be preserved."

"And did you know what happen if we found out the truth when it involved our officers?" Strict Stalker asked firmly, "Both sides could have started the war!"

"Say what?!"

"It's true! We Imperial Phoenix Kingdom won't take the accusation or framing one of our kind so lightly because of sick joke or personal vendetta. We will do whatever it takes to defend our kind and home. We will repel the invaders and conquer their home, even if it means it's one of our own allies. Unless it's our kind make mistake or you surrender the traitor, we are not amused."

"Oh my god..."

"Yes, Wind Rider. It is. You almost started the war if I hadn't witnessed of what you have done in the first place. Or the worse, I could have killed her than my fellow comrade. I warned you about this but you did not listen..."

Rainbow Dash glared at Wind Rider, "And I thought you were the coolest Wonderbolt ever. Until now."

Wind Rider hissed, "I did what I had to do to protect my record! Sometimes you gotta play dirty to be the best!"

"Grr! And that almost get both kingdom killed on war if Blazefist hadn't been involved of this!" Rainbow Dash protested in anger, "I almost lost one of my best friends! That's not what being a Wonderbolt is all about."

"She's right! Wonderbolts look out for each other!" Soarin exclaimed in agreement as he and his team surrounded Wind Rider, "Which reminds me, where is Spitfire?"

Wind Rider scoffed a bit, "I sent her the letter pretending to be Stormy Flare. I told her I had Pegasitis, and the only cure is the ice iris in the Crystal Mountains."

Rainbow Dash gasped, "No wonder she's been gone so long. Ice irises are almost impossible to find in spring!"

"The Crystal Mountains are too far for anypony to make it there and back before the royal garden opening!" Soarin said in concern. He turned and looked at her, "Rainbow Dash, we need you to fly in Spitfire's place!"

"But Spitfire shouldn't have to miss this! I'm gonna get her!"

"But you'll never make it in time!"

"Then there's no time to lose!"

Soarin gasped as he held Rainbow Dash's shoulder, "Rainbow Dash, I'm sorry for not believing in you. I really am. I'd never think that! You don't have to prove everything that you're the Wonderbolt and always supportive to us! You are one of us!"

"I'm not trying to prove it!" Rainbow Dash shouted back, "I'm trying to get her back to the team! You all need her more than me! So, stay put, captain!"

Rainbow Dash dashed and flew out to the sky. She flew straight to the Crystal Mountains to find Spitfire! Can she make it back?

After long hours, Wonderbolts were still waiting for Rainbow Dash and Spitfire come back while Soarin looked after Storny Flare. Strict Stalker and Blazefist were keeping their eyes on Wind Rider in making sure that he won't try to escape. Rarity and Shorty Thinking looked at the door as they waited for their friends to come back.

Blaze hissed in concern, "Rainbow Dash is still gone!"

"Oh, don't panic. If I know Rainbow Dash, she'll come through." Rarity remarked.

The door was opened! Rainbow Dash and heavy panted Spitfire entered! They both make it back in time. Soarin approached Spitfire with his amazing and shocked expression.

"Spitfire, you're back! I can't believe you made it!" Soarin commented in shock.

Spitfire breathed out loudly, "I wouldn't have, if Rainbow hadn't found me so fast! Gave me enough time to fly back!"

Rainbow Dash approached to Rarity Shorty and Blazefist, "Guys, I couldn't have done it without you both. 

Blazefist patted Rainbow Dash, "Glad to be there for you. I always stood for my friends."

Rainbow Dash turned to Rarity and Shorty Thinking, "And I'm sorry I doubted you the most, Rare. But why didn't you tell me what's really going on?"

"I didn't want to get your hopes up, Rainbow Dash until we are very sure of the right target." Shorty admitted humbly.

Rarity smiled, "We couldn't be sure until I saw that chocolate stain.

"And truthfully, I wasn't really good at being detective. Saber is. And he's very expert about it. I used his book called 'Detective for Dummies'." Shorty confessed humbly while holding the book up. 

"Rule No. 10 - have the partner who got good sense of judgment, observation and inspection despite their different passion and skills. I need Rarity because she has good sense of observation and inspection as well as know about fashions. Lots of guys and girls loved to be in disguise when it comes to frame on somepony else."

Rarity nodded in agreement, "I was very reluctant at it too, Rainbow Dash. But nevertheless, I gave it all because you're my friend."

Rainbow Dash smiled, "Thank you for believing in me, even when I was doubting you. I'm some friend, huh?"

Rarity shook her head, "Actually, you're quite a good friend. You went to get Spitfire, even though it meant you couldn't fly today."

Everyone smiled while nodded their heads in agreement. Rainbow Dash did good for saving and bringing Spitfire back in time.

Rarity smiled, "I would say - Case Closed!"

Rainbow Dash sighed, "I'll get my chance one day."

Spitfire smiled as she approached Wind Rider, "Or today. How'd you like Wind Rider's spot in the show?"

"Uh, w-w-what?" Wind Rider was stunned as he asked, "Y-You can't do this to me! I'm one of the greatest Wonderbolts there ever was!"

Spitfire huffed as she stripped the badge off Wind Rider's jacket, "Not anymore. For attempting to frame Rainbow Dash, I hereby strip you of your Wonderbolts status!"

Wind Rider sighed, "That's what I get for listening to that Seekcurse."

"Seekcures?!" Shorty asked in shock. Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Blazefist and Strict Stalker were in shock and concern. Wind Rider nodded firmly. He continued, "Seekcurse used Wind Rider's jealousy and fear against him and advised him to frame Rainbow Dash because no one can save her. But didn't realize that this is a setup for Equestria and Imperial Phoenix Kingdom to wage war till one of them is gone for good."

Blazefist hissed, "It make sense now. Wind Rider took it without realizing the consequence. All for the sake of his record..."

As Wind Rider looked down and walked away to the door in shame, Strict Stalker approached from behind and spoke.

"Still up for sparring later at the gym?" Strict Stalker asked. Wind Rider turned to him. He smirked a bit, "You did say you owe me a rematch."

Wind Rider smiled a bit, "Yeah... I'll be there, old friend. At least, I still got rival to face with. See ya." He looked at Rainbow Dash, "Sorry for everything, kid. I really am."

Wind Rider exited the door. Everyone turned to Rainbow Dash.

Soarin smiled at Rainbow Dash, "So, would you like to fly with us?"

"Would I?!" Rainbow asked in surprise. She smiled as she flew up to the sky and cheered, "Woo-hoo! Yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah, uh-huh, uh-huh, yeah, aww yeah..."

Everyone stared at her with amusement smile. She really wanted to be part of the team so much.

"Uh, Rainbow Dash?" Soarin spoke.

Rainbow Dash stopped as she blushed and make embarrassed noise. Everyone left the stage. Rainbow Dash followed them at once. She finally get to be part of the team!





During the grand opening, Wonderbolts made their best formation in front of the crowds. Wonderbolts unleashed their powerful smokescreen clouds in creating the flower-like. Rainbow Dash burst out from the middle while smiled proudly. Wonderbolts performed their aerial flower formation.

Rainbow's friends and Seven Phoenix Generals watched the event as they awed in amazement and surprise of the event.

"So my friend got her moment in the sun. Or the center of an aerial flower, as the case may be. And as for me? I got a chance to show off my Femme Mystique Chic collection!"

Stormy Flare commented, "That's nice, dear."

"Oh," Rarity gasped in surprise as she spotted both her friends and Stormy Flare looking at her. She blushed, "did I say that out loud?"

They all nodded their heads in confirmation. She smiled and blushed in embarrassment. As Rarity and her friends continued watching the event, two shadowy figures were at the stairs' entrance.

"It looks like you failed..." The girl's voice said in amusement, "You should have been more be careful with them."

The male scoffed, "It doesn't matter. We're here to test their friendship and skills. They will do anything to keep each other safe and sound."

"Well... We'll gonna have to keep an eye on them. There's gotta be some weakness in them. I have to find it and break it after what they have done to me and my paradise..."

"We will achieve it. We will have our revenge..."

END

Review and Suggest...

Main Casts:
Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity, Blaze
Ashleigh Ball: Rainbow Dash
David Faustino: Blazefist
Skip Stellrecht: Shorty Thinking
Matt Hill: Soarin
Jan Rabson: Wind Rider
Joshua Tomar: Strict Stalker

Minor Casts:
Kelly Metzger: Spitfire
Kelly Sheridan: Sassy Saddles, Misty Fly, Mysterious Mare
Sidika Larbes: Stormy Flare

Cameo:
Adam Baldwin: DJ Red
Clancy Brown: Clumsy Rat
James Sie: Shades
Nicole Oliver: Princess Celestia, Cinnamon Chai
Douglas Rye: Azure Phoenix
Peter New: Castle Guard #1
Brian Drummond: Castle Guard #2
Brian Dobson: Mysterious Stallion