At what point does Radian think to try scanning Twilight for an "alicorn signal" or something similar? He could push his own ascension if he tries!

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I'm afraid I'm not Hasbro. I do not throw out Alicorns without due cause (although I'm sure I would if I stood to gain money from doing so from toy sales).
In all seriousness, though, there's enough going on in this story without making scientifically created ascension a thing. Scanning Twilight, though?
Soon

“Oh, I see what you're getting at,” Twilight says, but just turns her nose upward. “You can claim whatever you want, but ask anyone; Starlight is one of the most powerful, broadly experienced unicorns in Equestria. And Sunburst is an authority on magic theory the likes of which you'll find nowhere else. Not to mention he's assisted our best mineralogist on numerous occasions and she routinely seeks his help for bigger projects.” She gives you a grin. “Or perhaps I should have selected a less qualified team to assist in repairing a life-saving stone for your family?”

I'm glad I was right and this was just Twilight picking out the best team for the job. It feels much more genuine and believable than it would have otherwise.

Applejack taps her chin with her hoof. “Well, it'd be right neighbourly... and it's not like I ain't fru-fru'd up on the odd occasion. Aw, why the hay not? If it helps you out, sugarcube, I'll do it.”

As much as I do enjoy this interlude between the girls, it does remind me of the woefully small level of interaction between Rainbow Dash and Rarity.

I really wish they had bothered to develop that combination more, if only because Rainbow Dash looks good in everything.

But in all honesty, I wish Rarity had been utilized with more characters besides Applejack.