> The Jack of All Trades
>  by Lord Zalgo
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue- The Gambler
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

 “All in.”

Lickety dropped the remainder of his chips into the pot, increasing its value to 400 bits. The player in the shadows watched the man’s movement silently. The next player took a quick glance at his cards and chuckled lightly.

“Raise.” Sore said in a cocky tone. He pushed a pile of red chips into the pile, making it worth 1000 bits. Two of the other players gasped, while the man in the shadows remained silent. A pair of silent, covered eyes watched their opponents closely from the darkness as the confident player smiled smugly.

“Call.” Lucky said shakily. The next player along pushed all of his chips away from him. The man in the shadows finally moved. He stopped leaning back, put his hoof forward and pushed six red chips into the pot. No one saw that move coming as the man leant back again with an expressionless face. 

One card was discarded from the deck and three cards were laid face-up for all to see. The ‘flop’ consisted of: a queen of hearts, a seven of diamonds and a ten of hearts. The smug player looked a little less cocky now, as the silent player tapped his hoof on the table twice in succession to signify a check. The other two players made no moves. The smug player also tapped the table twice with his hoof.

“I’ll check, too.” Another card was discarded and the ‘turn’ card was placed next to the flop. A jack of hearts. The smug player smiled as the silent player checked again. The smug player however, pushed all of his chips into the pot.

“All in.” The silent player did not react. He simply wiped the smile off of the other player’s face by calling and pushing all of his chips into the middle. The final card was discarded and the ‘river’ card was an ace of spades. The players turned their cards over for the dealer to see. With the silent player going last, the players went in order. The first player had: an ace of diamonds and an ace of clubs.

“Lickety Split has a three of a kind.” The dealer said. The smug player turned his cards over which were: an eight of hearts and a nine of hearts.

“Sore Winner has a flush.” Sore Winner laughed as the next player turned his cards over with a disappointed expression. A jack of spades and a seven of hearts.

“Lucky Shot has two pair, jacks over sevens.” Silence fell as the final man leaned over and flicked his cards over. It was then, and only then that he smirked. An ace of hearts and a king of hearts.

“Phoenix has… a royal flush!” The dealer said in disbelief. Phoenix pulled the giant pile of chips towards him with a triumphant expression. Lucky Shot and Lickety Split looked disappointed, but impressed with their loss.

“Gentlemen, it’s been an honour… Also, go fuck your respective selves.” Lickety Split said before he walked away.

“Well, if anyone needs me, I’ll be at the bar, trying to dream up an excuse for losing that money.” Lucky Shot said as he straightened his suit and walked to the bar. Sore Winner however, was still staring in disbelief until he finally snapped his attention to Phoenix who was still sitting in silence as he calmly puffed on his cigarette.

“You couldn’t have done that… You must have cheated!” Sore continued to scream until security was called to remove him. Unfortunately, they weren’t quick enough, because Sore Winner had already pulled a revolver from his inside jacket pocket and shot the guards in the unarmoured parts of their legs. They fell to the ground and nopony else dared to move. The entire casino went silent, until Sore Winner spoke again.

“Now, this is what’s gonna happen… You’re gonna give me those chips, or I blow your fuckin’ brains out!” Sore roared. Phoenix finally moved. He removed himself from the seat and stood motionless, until his horn glowed for a second and something soared towards Sore Winner. In a panic, Sore Winner pulled the trigger with his magic and flinched at the sound… of silence. Everyone in the casino had ducked to the ground when the trigger was pulled but no shot was fired. Sore Winner finally looked back at Phoenix, only to find that several playing cards were in-between the hammer and the firing pin, preventing the gun from firing. A hoof then came into contact with Sore Winner’s muzzle, sending him flying to the ground.

Everypony barely believed what they saw. Phoenix finally walked out of the shadows and began walking slowly towards Sore. Phoenix had a light grey coat with a neatly combed, black mane and tail. He was head to hoof in black clothing. From his black hooded jacket to the black fedora on his head, he looked intimidating. It looked like he had no colour to him at all until he took off his sunglasses to reveal piercingly bright blue eyes. His cutie mark was a pair of playing cards: an ace of hearts and an ace of clubs. Sore looked up at Phoenix with blood leaking from his nose and tears leaking from his eyes.

“How…? How did you do that…?” Sore asked weakly. Phoenix was busy scooping his winnings into his saddlebag to notice what he said.

“HOW?!” Sore screamed half from frustration, half from pain. Sore’s head was suddenly surrounded by a black magical glow as his head was slammed into the ground again. Phoenix pressed his hoof to the top of Sore’s head to keep him from standing.

“I’m a Fortesque. It’s what we do.” Phoenix growled as he let go. He calmly walked towards the cash exchange as ponies began to lift themselves from the floor and more guards arrived to take Sore away. With his winnings, now in bits, he walked out of Ponyville Casino and began walking to his house.

‘Twenty thousand bits in one night. Not bad.’ Phoenix thought to himself. He continued to walk until he noticed something he didn’t remember from his travels through town. The local library had a ‘sold’ sign on its door.

‘Somepony must have finally bought the place.’ Phoenix’s thoughts began to wander on who the new owner would be. Though, those questions would be answered the very next day, Phoenix couldn't help but wonder...

‘...I mean, how much can life change from one new arrival?’
> The Mare in The Moon
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix awoke to the sound of a high-pitched voice and frantic knocking coming from his door. He slipped out of his bed and trudged towards the front door. He practically groaned when he realised what the voice was saying and who it belonged to.

“Feenie, Feenie, Feenie, Feenie, Feenie, Feenie!!”

Pinkie Pie.

Phoenix quickly opened the door with his magic to avoid further damage to his eardrums, to find the unstoppable pink force herself.

“Pinkie! What have I told you about waking me up in the morning?!” Phoenix complained.

“But, Phoenix! It’s past noon and I have something REALLY important to tell you!!” Pinkie screamed as she bounced with anticipation.

“It’s gone noon?” Phoenix looked around to see the sun high up in the sky rather than in the east like he suspected.

“Fair enough. What did you wanna say, Pinkie?” Phoenix asked with an implied apology.

“There’s a new pony in town and I’m throwing a surprise party for her!” Pinkie squealed in excitement. Phoenix remained silent for a moment.

“...That’s not entirely news, Pinkie. You do that for every new pony.” Phoenix deadpanned.

“I know THAT, silly! I meant to say that you’re invited, Feenie!” Pinkie beamed. Phoenix stood expressionless for a moment until he finally asked the question that was on his mind.

“Why are you inviting me?” Phoenix asked in genuine confusion.

“Well, I barely see you anymore, Feenie. And, the new pony seems like a Miss Serious McSerious-son. With a town as friendly as Ponyville, I think she should meet someone who she can connect with!” Pinkie nodded in satisfaction of her logic. Phoenix was once again dumbstruck into silence for a moment.

“...Y’know, Pinkie... I don’t think I give you enough credit, sometimes.” Phoenix said with astonishment.

“Does that mean you’ll come?!” Pinkie got right into Phoenix’s face with a massive grin and a hopeful look. Phoenix slowly gave a small smile and chuckle.

“Who am I to ruin your plan? Tell me when and where and you can expect to see me there.” Phoenix said. His breath was cut short by the bubbly, pink mare hugging the life out of him with an even bigger smile on her face as she squee’d.

“You’re coming to the party and you smiled!! This is gonna be the best day ever!” Pinkie screamed. Phoenix just smiled and let her hug him until a thought crossed his mind.

“Pinkie, if you’re gonna focus on this new pony’s party, then how are you gonna celebrate the Summer Sun Celebration’s sunrise?” As soon as she heard those words, Pinkie stood completely motionless.

“OHMYGOSHITOTALLYFORGOT!!!! WHAT AM I GONNA DO?!?!” Pinkie wailed as she was literally crying like a fountain. Phoenix mentally slapped himself, but smiled as another thought came to his mind.

“Pinkie, why don’t you combine the parties? Greet the new pony, have that party, then at the same party; you celebrate the sunrise.” Phoenix looked down at the crying mare as he pitched his idea. Pinkie looked up at him as her eyes dried immediately. She thought for a few seconds, until she hugged Phoenix once again. When she let go she had her trademark smile back on her face.

“Phoenix, you GENIUS!! I’ve gotta go! I need to start setting things up! Do ya wanna come help?” She asked sweetly. Phoenix thought for a moment before grabbing his hoodie and walking out of his house with her.

As they walked through town Phoenix and Pinkie engaged in small talk, until the conversation reached the point where it always does, ever since they met.

“So, how’s that invention for portable parties coming?” Phoenix asked. Pinkie sighed and looked a bit deflated.

“Not good. I can’t think of a way to get a party into any place I want in a super fast way...” Pinkie sulked. Phoenix tapped his chin with his hoof and tried to help her.

“Maybe... you need to find a way to decorate a place quickly and the party will come on its own?” Phoenix asked. Pinkie didn’t seem fazed.

“Yeah, that’s one way, but how could I do it? I’ve looked into every industry machinery I could find, but nothing.” Pinkie sulked as her hair seemed to droop lower than usual. Phoenix racked his brain to find a way to help her.

“Well... I can’t think of a solution for you. Maybe you need to think outside the box on this one.” Phoenix said in a calming voice. Pinkie still wasn’t fazed.

“I don’t think thinking inside a chimney’s gonna help me here.” Pinkie said sulkily.

“What? No. I mean, just think about things that get things done quickly and maybe you’ll get it?” Phoenix wasn’t convincing himself, let alone Pinkie. However, it did seem to cheer her up.

“Thanks, Feenie. You’re a true friend, you know that?” Pinkie said with a sad smile.

“Well, I had a good teacher.” Phoenix replied as he pulled her into a hug. After a while of hugging, Pinkie gasped loudly and pulled him into an alley.

“What are you doing?!” Phoenix asked.

“Shh! There she is! The new pony!” Pinkie pointed towards the street. Phoenix looked to so a unicorn with a bright lavender coat, dark purple mane with a pink highlight and a somewhat bulging belly.

“She’s bigger than I remember.” Pinkie said in confusion. Phoenix looked in the direction the new pony was coming from and chuckled.

“I think she came from Sweet Apple Acres.” Phoenix said, holding back a laugh. Pinkie didn’t bother. She just giggled, at the memory of the Apple family hospitality. She giggled even more when looked back at the unicorn to see that her neatly styled mane had become a large mess of curls.

“What happened?” Phoenix asked.

“Rainbow Dash happened!” Pinkie giggled further. Phoenix let out a single chuckle. Everypony in Ponyville knows Rainbow “Danger” Dash, and they also know that they should never let her dry their manes. Shame the new pony didn’t. Pinkie and Phoenix finally calmed down and walked towards the place that unicorn was staying. Phoenix was right in his assumption that the new pony bought the library, but didn’t know that she’d stay there. Inside there were numerous ponies that Pinkie recruited to help set up the party, meaning it was nearly done.

Phoenix spent about a minute assuring Pinkie that the new pony was still on her way and she probably got caught up with doing something. When suddenly a pony with a grey coat, a blonde mane and yellow eyes that pointed in opposite directions looked out the window and saw the unicorn coming towards the library. Everypony gathered in the centre of the room and Pinkie turned the lights off. A few seconds later, the unicorn practically zoomed through the door, pushed another pony out and slammed it afterwards. A male voice cut through the darkness.

“Huh. Rude, much?” The voice said in an annoyed tone.

“Sorry, Spike. But, I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming and we’re running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where’s the light?” A female voice replied. A second after her sentence had finished, the room became brightly lit and filled with a shout.

“SURPRISE!!” Everypony yelled. Phoenix remained quiet. His voice was usually quiet, so he wasn’t the shouting type. The new unicorn looked less than pleased. Pinkie was next to her instantly.

“Surprise! Hi! I’m Pinkie Pie and I threw this party just for you! We’re ya surprised?! We’re ya?! We’re ya?! Huh?! Huh?! Huh?!” Pinkie said in one remarkable breathe.

“VERY surprised. But, libraries are supposed to be QUIET.” The unicorn hinted, hoping that Pinkie would go away. Pinkie was about to let out another burst of dialogue, but Phoenix put his hoof in front of her mouth. Despite being muffled beyond recognition, Pinkie continued to speak, completely unfazed.

“You’ll have to forgive her, she’s on a permanent sugar rush.” Phoenix said with a small smile. The unicorn’s eyes seemed to widen slightly when Phoenix stepped in. Phoenix noticed, but paid it no mind.

“I’m Phoenix Fortesque, may I know your name?” Phoenix said with his same small, charming smile. That seem to knock her out of her stupor and she finally responded.

“Uh... I-I’m Twilight S-Sparkle. W-what’s your name?” Twilight said with a nervous smile and a slow rising redness in her cheeks. Phoenix was a bit confused by the response.

“Phoenix Fortesque.” Phoenix slightly deadpanned. Twilight seemed to mentally slap herself, and continued to nervously smile at Phoenix.

“Right, you said, sorry! My m-mind’s been everywhere today!” Twilight said quickly as she chuckled nervously. Pinkie finally pushed Phoenix’s hoof away as four other mares gathered near the three of them.

“-and now you have lots and lots of friends!” Pinkie concluded, despite nopony hearing the rest of her soliloquy. Twilight’s face had a mix of annoyance, embarrassment and something that Phoenix couldn’t recognise. She began to blindly pour herself a drink with her magic as her eyes were still focused on the six ponies in front of her. One in particular. She began to quickly drink from the chalice she poured the liquid into, however her eyes immediately watered, her cheeks were redder than ever, mane ignited and she ran upstairs.

“Aw. She’s so happy, she’s crying!” Pinkie said happily. The other five ponies looked at her in confusion and Phoenix walked into the crowd. The party went on and Twilight didn’t return downstairs. Her baby dragon, Spike on the other hand, was having a blast. Phoenix went to a corner of the room and began crowd-watching. It made him feel more comfortable to watch others when in a large crowd. He eventually reached into his pocket, pulled out a flask with his magic and took a sip of the whisky he brought with him.

“Hey mister, what’s that?” Phoenix froze as he heard a small, high pitched voice to the side of him. He looked to his left to see a small filly with an white coat, lavender and pink mane and no cutie mark. He lowered the flask slowly and racked his brain to think of something to say.

“I-It’s just... medicine.” Phoenix replied weakly. The filly seemed to buy it.

“Oh, do you have a cold or something?” She asked curiously.

“Something like that, yeah. The medicine’s to make sure nopony else catches it.” Phoenix replied quickly.

“Good. I was worried that I’d catch it.” She said with a look of relief.

“Well, don’t worry, you won’t. Why don’t you find your friends and have some fun?” Phoenix said kindly. The filly looked around, grinned then ran into the crowd. Phoenix was about to take another sip, but a mare walked towards him.

“While I don’t condone your alcohol consumption, I appreciate you not telling her what it was.” The mare said. She had a white coat, a perfectly curled purple mane, blue eye-shadow and blue eyes. They weren’t as bright as Phoenix’s, but could still hold a stallion’s attention... until their eyes met her flanks. Phoenix’s eyes stayed with hers as he responded.

“She looked too young to know what it is.” Phoenix replied before he sipped from the flask again. The mare seemed to flinch slightly at the act, but kept a smile on her face.

“She is... You won’t drink too much, will you?” She asked with a hint of worry. Phoenix simply smiled.

“I never drink enough to get me drunk. You don’t have to worry about your sister or anypony else.”

“Ah, good. Wait... How did you know she’s my sister?” The mare asked with confusion.

“You just told me. I made an assumption considering: physical resemblance, emotional response and the fact you seem too young to be a mother.” Phoenix explained. The mare seemed aghast for a moment, before smiling slyly.

“You clever man. I am Rarity Belle.” She put her hoof forward. Phoenix noticed that her hoof was bent down at the end, which indicated that she wasn’t expecting a hoofshake. Phoenix took her hoof, bent his head down and kissed it delicately. He looked back up to see her face, which still held a smile.

“I’m Phoenix Fortesque.” Phoenix replied.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr Fortesque. Not many stallions in this town would have picked up on that little signal.” Rarity replied with slight admiration in her voice.

“First for everything, I suppose.” Phoenix chuckled while Rarity giggled slightly.

“Indeed. I hope I see you soon, Phoenix.” Rarity said as she walked away, swaying her hips slightly as she did so. Most stallions would find it hypnotic, however Phoenix wasn’t like most stallions. He took a final sip from his flask just as Pinkie came up to him.

“Come on, Feenie! We’ve gotta go see the sunrise!” Pinkie said excitedly as she pulled Phoenix by the hoof, leading him out of the library. Everypony began gathering in town hall and waited for the great princess of the sun: Princess Celestia. Minutes passed until Mayor Mare gave the signal that the introduction should begin. The birds began to sing in tune under the mare with the yellow coat’s instruction. It was only then that Phoenix realised that Pinkie wasn’t next to him anymore. He looked around quickly and saw her standing next to Twilight. Phoenix stayed where he was and returned his attention to the mayor.

“Fillies and Gentlecolts. As mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration.” The mayor announced. Everypony in the crowd cheered in response.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the sunrise and celebrate this: the longest day of the year. And now, it is my great honour introduce the ruler of our land, the very pony raises the sun and the moon each and every day: the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria... Princess Celestia!” The mayor finished her speech and pointed to the large curtain on the far right which opened to reveal... nothing. Everypony began muttering with confusion and worry as the mayor tried to calm everyone down. Phoenix drowned her out and began scanning the area, with only one thought on his mind.

‘Shit’s about to go down.’

Phoenix was brought out of his thoughts by Pinkie who let out a frightened yelp and everypony else looking at one spot and gasping. Phoenix looked to the point the crowd was and saw a sparkling, navy blue mist swirl and flow until a figure was revealed. She was an alicorn with a black coat, a flowing mane made of the navy blue mist, turquoise eyes with cat-like pupils and an aura of dominance.

“Oh, my beloved subjects. It’s been so long since I’ve seen your little sun-loving faces.” The dark mare said in a terrifyingly sweet voice. 

“What did you do to our Princess?” Rainbow Dash questioned angrily as she was about to attack her, but Applejack held her back by her tail.

“Why? Am I not royal enough for you? Don’t you know who I am?” She replied. Pinkie suddenly appeared by Applejack’s side and began to try and guess her name.

“Ooh! Ooh! More guessing games! Um, Pokey Smokes! How about: Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, BLACK SNOOT-.“ Pinkie couldn’t complete her sentence as Applejack stuffed her mouth with a cupcake. It only served to aggravate the alicorn.

“Does my crown no longer count, now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” The alicorn said as she went to the mare with the birds and then to Rarity who were unfortunate enough to be nearby.

“I did! And I know who you are! You’re the mare in the moon! Nightmare Moon!” Twilight announced loud enough for everyone to hear. Everypony gasped as Phoenix began to step closer to the front to get a better look at the action.

“Well, well, well. Somepony who remembers me. Then you also know why I’m here.” Nightmare Moon’s voice was growing steadily more malicious despite not losing the soothing quality to it.

“You’re here to... to...” Twilight couldn’t complete her sentence as if it was stuck in her throat. She finally gulped and could say no more. Nightmare Moon let loose a laugh that sent shivers down the spines of everypony present.

“Remember this day. Little ponies. For it was your last. From this moment forth: the night will last forever!” Nightmare Moon cackled as her power filled the room, silencing anyponies hopes of fighting back. Phoenix looked to the goddess of the night and then to everyone else. The frightened stallions, mares and foals. He couldn’t watch idly by. He ran from the town hall. He ran back to his home and trotted to his room where laid his target: a safe. He used his magic to turn the dial and opened the door. He wrapped the objects inside in his magical, black aura and pulled them towards him.

First, he put a necklace around his neck which held a Harmony Stone at its end. Legend says they bring you luck on your journeys. He then placed a plain black fedora on top of his head, which covered his horn and the brim covered his eyes. Finally, he pulled out his father’s six-shooter. He pushed the barrel forward to check that it was fully loaded. He then put it in his pocket and closed the safe. He wasn’t going to let some Nightmare bitch have her way with the world. It was time to read up on a legend or two. He walked out of his house and headed towards the library.
> The Princess of The Night
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight ran into the library, with Spike still tired and scared on her back. She laid him on his bed just as he was struggling for the last bit of his consciousness.

“Uh... We gotta stop Nightmare...” Spike frantically said as sleep finally took him.

“You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all. Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?” Twilight looked around for an appropriate book to help her, until Rainbow Dash appeared in her face with a suspicious expression.

“And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you a spy? Whoa!” Rainbow interrogated before she was pulled away from Twilight by Applejack.

“Simmer down, Sally. She ain't no spy. But she sure knows what's going on. Don't you, Twilight?” The rest of the girls gathered behind Applejack as she politely questioned. Twilight inhaled and then began to explain.

“I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!” Twilight exclaimed, at her wits end.

*Knock, knock, knock*

Silence filled the library as all eyes were glued to the door. Twilight’s purple aura covered the door handle and opened the door. Standing in the doorway, as bold as brass was: Phoenix Fortesque.

“Oh... Am I late to the meeting?” Phoenix asked as he walked towards the girls.

“I suppose not. How much did you hear?” Twilight questioned.

“Enough. We need to use the ‘Elements of Harmony’ to beat Nightmare Moon?” Phoenix responded.

“That’s about it. I still have no idea where they are or anything!”

"’The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide.’" Pinkie quoted from the other side of the room. Twilight zoomed to where Pinkie was and looked at the book that she found in disbelief.

“How did you find that?!” Twilight exclaimed.

“It was under ‘E’.” Pinkie said in a sing-song voice. It caused Phoenix to silently chuckle. Twilight took the book out and began to read aloud for everyone to hear.

“Oh. There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known: Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. It is said, the last known location of the five elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now: the Everfree Forest.” Twilight dictated. The colour in everypony’s faces drained.

“The Everfree? We go there, we’re practically saying to its inhabitants that we’re delicious and they can come get us!” Phoenix exclaimed.

“Whoa, dude. Why’re you so scared all of sudden?” Rainbow Dash said with a hint of mocking in her voice. Phoenix just scowled, unzipped his hoodie and showed his torso to the girls. Their eyes were immediately drawn to the faint scars that ran along his chest. Everypony was surprised, except Pinkie. Fluttershy walked tentatively forward and delicately touched the scars with her hoof. Phoenix didn’t flinch away from the touch, or when Fluttershy’s hoof began to trace the scar along his chest. Until she applied a bit too much pressure to her touch on one of his ribs, causing him to giggle. Fluttershy flinched away from him because of the sudden noise, resulting Phoenix to apologise.

“Sorry, I’m ticklish.” Small giggles erupted from everypony but Twilight as Phoenix zipped his hoodie back up.

“Laughing aside, can anyone take me to the Everfree Forest?” Twilight asked, causing the laughter to stop immediately. After some moments of silence, the girls nodded in agreement. After more silence, Phoenix agreed as well. They all left the library and headed through town towards the dirt road towards the Everfree. The town was desolate, due to fear and paranoia. And the eternal night might have had something to do with it. They arrived in front of the forest and Pinkie began to bounce in.

“Whee! Let’s go!” Pinkie cheered.

“Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own.” Twilight said, expecting everypony to turn back. Phoenix scoffed as he lit a cigarette and placed it in his mouth.

”No can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple.” Applejack announced and walked into the forest, closely followed by the girls and Phoenix who muttered their agreement.

“Especially if there's candy apples in there. What? Those things are good!” Pinkie said cheerfully, as Twilight sighed and followed.

“So, none of you have been in here before?” Twilight asked the group.

“Ugh, Heavens no! Just look at it, it's dreadful.” Rarity replied.

“I’ve been here once before and I left with a permanent souvenir.” Phoenix answered. Twilight looked a little uncomfortable with Phoenix’s reply.

“If you don’t mind me asking, Phoenix... What happened? What gave you those... marks?” Twilight asked hesitantly.

“Nah, it’s alright. I passed too close to a sleeping manticore that I didn’t notice and it took a swipe at me.” Phoenix replied.

“Oh, my. You don’t think there are any nearby, do you?” Rarity asked nervously.

“It’s unlikely, however if one does come along, we’ll just avoid it. We’ll be fine.” Phoenix said in a calming tone. The group continued to walk in silence until Rainbow couldn’t stand the awkwardness anymore.

“So, uh... Phoenix, Rarity, are you two related?” Rainbow awkwardly asked. The ponies in questions looked at her with confused expressions.

“No. Why do you ask?” Rarity replied.

“Well, you two have similar coloured coats and you both have Canterlotian accents. I just made an assumption.” Rainbow responded. Phoenix just chuckled and continued walking. His laughter was short lived as the cliff they were walking on began to crack and break under their hooves. Everypony began to slip and fall down the cliffside, while Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy took to the air. They began to take the girls to ground level while Applejack held onto a branch, Twilight was dangling on the edge of the cliff and Phoenix was trying to slow his decent down the slope. Unfortunately, Phoenix fell all the way down to the edge and fell over it. Twilight screamed his name as he fell, but she couldn’t see him being caught by Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash, who lowered his safely to the ground.

Phoenix looked up to see Applejack holding Twilight’s hooves as she held onto the edge of the cliff, until Twilight let go of the cliff completely, screaming as she did so. Only to be caught by two pegasi, as the rest of the group was, while Applejack jumped to different levels of the cliff and descended to the ground. The group thanked Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash for their actions saving their lives. Fluttershy blushed and smiled slightly as she walked, while Rainbow bragged seemingly endlessly.


“And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, whoosh... Me and Fluttershy loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time.” Rainbow flipped and flew around to illustrate her point.

“Yes, Rainbow, I was there, and I'm very grateful, but we gotta- A manticore!” Twilight interrupted her own sentence to drew attention to the beast. The girls all attempted to attack the creature in order to remove it from their path. Fluttershy tried to get the girls to halt their attacks, while Phoenix was staring at the manticore. His horn began to glow as the weapon in his pocket began to move. 

He lifted his gun from his pocket and aimed it at the manticore, cocking back the hammer as he did so. He applied more pressure to the trigger, preparing to fire on the creature.

“WAIT!” Fluttershy yelled at what was seemingly the top of her voice. She moved to the manticore slowly and nuzzle its paw, causing it to reveal a large thorn stuck in it.

“Oh, you poor, poor little baby.” Fluttershy said in a tone a mother would use for her a child with a scraped knee.

“Little?” Rainbow said in a tone of disbelief. 

“Now this might hurt for just a second.” Fluttershy assured before she grabbed the thorn with her mouth and pulled it out. The beast roared as she removed the thorn, causing the girls to cry out her name and Phoenix to raise his weapon again. The manticore then proceeded to purr as it licked Fluttershy’s face in a grateful and loving manner. Phoenix and the girls snuck past the manticore as it was occupied while Twilight stayed to wait for Fluttershy. When the group was together again, half of them were glaring at Phoenix.

“What?” Phoenix asked. Fluttershy’s glare intensified slightly as she pointed to Phoenix’s pocket which held his gun.

“You were about to shoot that poor dear.” Fluttershy said in a scolding tone.

“And the girls were about to charge and beat it into submission.” Phoenix retorted.

“Why the hay do you even have a gun anyway?!” Rainbow demanded.

“In case of an emergency where I require one. Some poker players are violent when they lose.” Phoenix replied calmly.

“Poker players?” Applejack asked curiously in a narrow voice.

“Yeah! Feenie is the best poker player around!” Pinkie said cheerfully. Applejack just scowled further.

“It just keeps getting better with you, don’t it?” Applejack said in a narrow, sarcastic tone.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Phoenix asked in offence.

“Ya have to be good at lyin’ to be good at poker. No matter what, liars are bad people. Ah guess we just saw your true colours, partner.” Applejack said as she took a threatening step forward. Phoenix stood his ground as his scowl intensified.

“And maybe, now I’m seeing yours. Trying to turn the group against me, for whatever reason.” Phoenix argued, taking a step towards her. Fluttershy and Rainbow were no longer glaring and joined the girls in having worried expressions.

“If we’re gonna find these Elements of Harmony, we can’t have a lyin’ phycho taintin’ ‘em.” Phoenix just stood for a moment before giving an evil smile.

“Fine. Go on ahead of me. I’ll be watching. And should you need me during your little light-hearted quest of non-violence, I’ll take my sweet time, partner.” Phoenix spat the last word as he walked away, looked back and leaned himself against a tree. Applejack merely scoffed.

“Come on, y’all. We don’t need him.” Applejack began to walk away and the girls slowly followed. Pinkie in particular looked quite torn. Phoenix gave her a nod and she followed the girls. Phoenix waited for about a minute before walking in the same direction that the girls did. He was walking for about a minute until he reached a group of mares on the ground, laughing their flanks off. He leaned against a tree and watched them for a moment before Pinkie spotted him.

“Feenie! You just missed my song! It was about the proper way to face fears and laughing and joy and happiness and do you want me to sing it again?!” Pinkie said in one breath. Phoenix smiled and shook his head politely before making Pinkie turn her attention to the girls who had recovered from their laughter. Applejack was still glaring at Phoenix, but he was paying her no mind.

“Why can’t you walk with us, Feenie?” Pinkie asked, her eyes betraying how sad she felt.

“I’m proving my point, Pinkie.” Phoenix replied.

“But, what if we don’t need you and Applejack’s right?”

“Then, I’ll shake her by the hoof, admit I was wrong and apologise.” Pinkie didn’t reply for a second.

“Really? Why?” Pinkie asked genuinely.

“If I’ve been proven wrong, what’s the point in pretending that I’m not? If Applejack proves me wrong, then she’s right. Can’t do much about that, so I might as well accept it.” Phoenix explained with a smile. Pinkie smiled too and began to walk back to the girls. Phoenix caught Applejack speaking directly to Pinkie Pie.

“You should stop talkin’ to him, sugercube. Liars are lost causes that’ll bring you nothin’ but trouble.” Applejack said with finality. Pinkie Pie just giggled good heartedly.

“Well, then. You clearly don’t know Phoenix Fortesque.” Pinkie replied happily. Phoenix smiled at that statement and waited for another minute, then began to walk. After a few minutes of walking, the ground beneath his hooves was waterlogged. He looked to the ground with confusion as the river next to the ground was too shallow to have flooded. His attention then turned to the giant purple sea serpent sitting in the river seeming staring at its own snout.

Phoenix looked to its snout and saw hair emerging from either side of it. What was even more odd, was that the hair was mismatched: one side was smooth orange hair, while the other side was curled, purple hair. Phoenix immediately recognised the hair as Rarity’s, meaning one of two things. That the sea serpent had seen the girls or had eaten them.

“Excuse me?” Phoenix caught the attention of the serpent who lowered himself down to eye level with Phoenix.

“Can I help you, sir?” The serpent asked.

“Yes, you can, good sir. Would you have happened to have seen six mares come by this way?” Phoenix asked the serpent politely. The serpent’s eyes filled with joy as a large smile appeared on his face.

“Why, yes I did! They are on the other side of the river, after I aided their cross. It was the least I could do after what that WONDERFUL mare did for me! O, stars above! I wish I could have done more!” The serpent proclaimed to the heavens.

“Well, dear sir, those mares happen to be acquaintances of mine. If you would allow my passage, I’d be more than happy to express your gratitude to them.” Phoenix offered.

“If you need to cross as well, then I consider it my duty! I, Stephen Magnet, will not allow a worthy lady or gentleman to be without aid in their time of need!” Stephen picked Phoenix up with his strangely fabulous, manicured hand and dropped him off on the opposite river bank.

“Many thanks, Mr Magnet! I’ll let the girls know how grateful you are!” Phoenix shouted somewhat quietly as he began to trot towards the abandoned castle. Stephen expressed his goodbyes as Phoenix walked. The castle was finally in his view and despite the fact that it was falling apart, he thought the architecture was impressive. Trying to avoid panicking due to his fear of heights, he crossed the rickety rope bridge as quickly as he could without acknowledging how long the fall would be. He walked into the castle, to find absolutely nothing. He strained his ears and eventually heard magical blasts and shouts from a distant part of the palace. He instantly galloped towards the noise, but could only make it out when he entered the room.

The girls each had some kind of golden jewellery around their neck or in Twilight’s case, on her head. Nightmare Moon was in front of them cackling like a madmare, as Phoenix noticed the navy blue hue surrounding the girls, preventing them from moving or using the Elements.

“’Tis commendable that you found the Elements, but did you really think that I would simply stand and allow you to vanquish me?” Nightmare Moon said mockingly. Phoenix ran from pillar to pillar, getting closer and closer to Nightmare Moon. He had to do something. Anything. Anything to help the girls. His eyes slowly fell to his pocket. Phoenix stared fearfully at himself for a second before sighing quietly.

‘May fortune favour the foolish.’ Phoenix thought before he pulled out his gun and fired a shot at Nightmare Moon’s head. The bullet ricocheted off of Nightmare Moon’s helmet, preventing any damage to her, but the shock still caused her to release the girls from her magical grip. Nightmare turned her attention to Phoenix as he started walking backwards and fired more shots at her. He was eventually backed against one of the windows.

“Annoying little gnat!” Nightmare screamed as she shot a blast of magic towards him. Phoenix put his hoof to his necklace and gripped it tight as he was pushed back. What he didn’t expect when he hit the window was that he kept going. Shards from the window flew around him, one even scratching his forehead.

Time seemed to slow down as he fell, watching the glass fall with him and droplets of his blood falling at a slower rate than himself. A tune seemed to play in his head as he was serenely falling and waiting for death.

Time seemed to be returning to normal as he started to fall much quicker. The last thing he saw before his eyes closed was a beautiful bright light emitting from the castle.

And a figure approaching him at a remarkable speed.

A figure...

...of pure white...
> Repairing Bodies And Bridges
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Beep... beep... beep

‘Can’t anypony die in peace?!’

...

‘Wait...’

Phoenix began to open his eyes to see that he was on a green/blue sheeted bed in a crystal white room. He looked to his left to see an IV attached to his foreleg and a heart rate monitor beeping at short, regular intervals. It took Phoenix a moment or two to realise that he was in a hospital room. Phoenix’s eyes became pinpricks as memories of the Summer Sun Celebration flooded back into his mind, until he felt a warm sensation on his face. He turned his head to the right to discover a window with the curtains drawn, but something was seeping through the gaps that warmed not only Phoenix’s face, but his heart as well.

Sunlight.

Phoenix in that instant knew that his actions weren’t in vain, but anxieties still remained in his mind. He looked to the bedside table to his right to see a black, folded hooded jacket and his harmony stone necklace lying on top of it. Minor relief entered his mind. He loved that jacket.

“Well, would you look whose back with the living?” Phoenix’s stomach twisted as a stallion’s voice filled the room. Phoenix turned his head back to the left to see a stallion sitting in a chair on the far side of the room, holding a knife and an apple that he was peeling with his golden magical aura. The stallion had a light grey coat with a neatly combed black mane and tail. In fact, he was practically the spitting image of Phoenix. The only differences were that the stallion’s eyes were bright lavender, instead of sky blue like Phoenix’s and his cutie mark was a rolled up scroll with a golden seal. Not unlike Mayor Mare’s, except the seal had black ribbon and the gold seal had a sparkle on its edge.

Phoenix looked less than happy to see him.

“Suddenly, death sounds like a nice option.” Phoenix said in a cold tone.

“Now, brother. There’s no need for that.” The stallion replied.

“You’re not exactly the first face that I want to see when I wake up, Cloud.” Phoenix argued.

“How many times must we go through this silly rivalry, Phoenix?”

“I don’t know. How long until you forfeit?” Silence fell between the two, until they both smiled and chuckled.

“Good to know that nearly dying didn’t affect your personality at all. It’s just a shame it didn’t make you more polite.” Cloud commented in a teasing tone.

“You should try it sometime.” Phoenix replied in kind.

“No, thank you. I’m alright.”

“So, what happened to me?” Phoenix finally questioned. This caught Cloud off-guard.

“You don’t remember?” He asked in a worried manner.

“I remember being blasted out of a stain-glass window, but I blacked out before I hit the ground.”

“Well, I can’t fill in the blanks for you. But, somepony wanted to see you when you awoke.” Cloud began to walk to the door with a scroll in his magic. Before he left, he turned towards Phoenix.

“I’ll send a message to our dear sister, too. She managed to visit you once, but her career pulled her back again. You know what she’s like. I’ll let her know you’re fine.” Phoenix smiled and nodded his thanks as his brother left the room. Phoenix was left to wonder who could answer his questions. He didn’t have long to wait, because a minute or so after Cloud left, the room filled with light. The blinding light subsided and the majestic form of Princess Celestia stood in front of the bed Phoenix was lying on with a gentle and slightly relieved smile.

And Phoenix nearly shat himself.

“Princess! Uhh... I’d bow, but...” Phoenix stuttered and fumbled with his words.

“That’s alright, my little pony. I’m glad to see that you are finally conscious.” Celestia soothingly replied.

“...Finally? How long was I out?” Phoenix asked worriedly.

“Just over a week. You missed a fair amount of events from what I hear. Which reminds me...” A spark of magic flashed in front of Celestia and a golden object hovered in front of her. After a moment of inspection, Phoenix realised it was a ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala.

“Okay, Princess Celestia is visiting me in hospital, seems to know exactly who I am and is hoofing me a ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala. None of the above makes sense to me.” Phoenix said in an annoyed and confused manner. Celestia seemed a tad surprised at how blunt Phoenix was with her.

“After what you did for the Elements of Harmony, they consider you their friend and saved this ticket for you.” Celestia said a little shakily, still in shock of how cold Phoenix was. Phoenix was still confused.

“That still doesn’t explain why you’re here.” Phoenix said in a less cold and more curious tone.

“The girls were worried about your condition. I wanted to see you to find out what kind of pony you are. Only a hero would face Nightmare Moon the way you did.” Celestia said with pride. Phoenix’s expression didn’t change.

“I’m no hero, Princess.” Despite how cold Phoenix was being, he was still being respectful to Celestia, while she was simply surprised that he wasn’t even trying to butter her up like most of her subjects would. She was even more surprised why he wouldn’t accept such a high compliment.

“Why do you deny such a title?” Celestia inquired. The stallion was getting more and more intriguing.

“Ponies will tell you that heroes don’t use guns. Besides, what have I done that could be considered heroic?” Phoenix lazily laid back on his hospital bed. He was beginning to get annoyed with Celestia’s persistence.

“You were willing to sacrifice your life for the girls to have the opportunity to use the Elements to rid the corruption from my sister, Luna.” Celestia said as if it was obvious.

“I wasn’t exactly planning to be blasted out of a window. I’m a coward who had a moment of foolery. I tried to shoot a goddess in the head with a six-shooter! That’s nothing but foolery!” Phoenix raised his voice to get his point across.

“It was you...” A quiet voice came from the door. Celestia turned and Phoenix looked in the same direction. Another alicorn was standing in the doorway, staring at Phoenix with wide watery eyes. She was smaller than Celestia with a dark blue coat, short light blue mane and tail, blue eyes and a symbol of the moon on her flank. Her eyes had a slight red hue, as if she’d been crying. She suddenly ran into the room, threw her forelegs around Phoenix and began crying.

“It is so good to see you alive and well, brave one!” Luna wailed as she gripped him.

“Uh... And you are...?” Phoenix asked in genuine confusion as the mare refused to let go.

“She’s my sister. Princess Luna.” Celestia said.

“We... We were... Nightmare Moon.” Luna said fearfully. Phoenix’s expression once again, didn’t change.

“...Past tense.” Phoenix asked openly, awaiting her response.

“When the Elements of Harmony released their energies into her, she was reformed and she returned to her true form. She isn’t Nightmare Moon anymore.” Celestia said, yet remained wary of how Phoenix could react. Both princesses received a small surprise when Phoenix wrapped one of his legs around Luna and gave a kind smile.

“That’s all I need to hear. I have no reason to mistrust you. What do you say? Friends?” Phoenix gave a small, yet wide smile to Luna. She stared for a moment before she smiled and squeezed him tighter. Phoenix looked to Celestia with a kind, questioning look.

“What about you? You want in on this?” Phoenix said with a smirk. Celestia let out a lone chuckle as she closed her eyes and shook her head. Phoenix’s smirk grew as he grabbed Celestia in his magic and pulled her into his awaiting embrace, without letting go of Luna.

“Don’t struggle, Celestia. Even princesses need a good hug now-and-then.” Phoenix said kindly. Celestia remained still for a moment before wrapping her hooves and wings around Phoenix and Luna.

Once Phoenix and Celestia had convinced Luna that she had been forgiven, the princesses returned to Canterlot. After a minute or so, a nurse walked up to Phoenix and began to explain his condition.

“Most of the damage was centred on your legs and head, but the injuries on your head weren’t too severe. The wounds were easily cured with magic. We were just waiting for you to regain consciousness.” Nurse Redheart explained.

“Good to know. Thank you, nurse. Am I in any condition to leave?” Phoenix asked.

“Yes, but your legs could still be a little weak. I’d like you to see me weekly until their original strength returns.” Redheart instructed.

“Why nurse, you don’t beat around the bush, do you?” Phoenix said with half-lidded eyes and a teasing smile. Redheart blushed and spoke again.

“I-I didn’t mean it like that, Mr Fortesque!” Redheart stammered. Phoenix chuckled with a kind smile.

“I know, Nurse Redheart. I’m just teasing. Would you mind giving me a hoof here?” Phoenix said as he started to climb out of bed. Redheart went quickly to his side and supported him as he stepped onto the floor. His legs were a little shaky as he tried to stabilise himself. He tried to walk slowly around the room, shakily, like a newborn deer. He was eventually back to normal, thanked Redheart and started to walk out of the room. Redheart was sure to stay near Phoenix in case he had any trouble with moving or magic as he put his nearby hoodie on, put his necklace in his pocket or when he signed some forms to signify his release.  He made sure that he had his gala ticket in his pocket before he left the hospital completely.

Phoenix walked into town to get some answers to questions that were plaguing his thoughts. Did the girls get hurt like he did? How did he survive his fall? Suddenly, the next thing Phoenix knew, he was on his back facing a being of pure pink. She held on to him very tightly and her mane poofed to its regular shape. He silently smiled and held her until her tears stopped.

“I’m so glad to see you awake again!” Pinkie said happily through her tears. Phoenix was about to respond when he heard another voice as Rarity and Applejack trotted up to them.

“Pinkie, dear? We turn away for a second to find you on top... of...” Rarity’s words died in her throat as she noticed who Pinkie was on top of. Her decorum forgotten, she ran to Phoenix, fell to her knees and hugged him along with Pinkie. Phoenix smiled and hugged them back. When Phoenix was finally able to stand again, Applejack looked at him with a mix of guilt and uncertainty.

“I-its... good to see you up an’ about...” Applejack said awkwardly. Phoenix simply smiled.

“Thank you. I’m glad you weren’t hurt. Was anypony else hurt?” Phoenix asked. Rarity answered for Applejack.

“No, darling. It was just you. We should have felt relief from that... but we just felt worry.” Rarity seemed to depress herself slightly.

“Hey, hey. No need for that now.” Phoenix said soothingly as he delicately put his hoof to her cheek.

“U-uh... If y’all could excuse me, ah-ah’ve got some chores to do.” Applejack quickly and awkwardly walked towards Sweet Apple Acres. Pinkie and Rarity watched at her leave in confusion.

“Why is she being so weird?” Pinkie asked. Phoenix scoffed slightly.

“I never thought I’d hear that from you, Pinks.” Phoenix said, trying to hold back a chuckle. Pinkie giggled, while Rarity remained stoic.

“I can’t figure out why she’s acting that way. Ever since the Summer Sun Celebration, she’s been acting strangely, but... never that strangely.” Rarity said with uncertainty.

“I could read her a little. She seemed to be conflicted about something. I don’t think I win any prizes for assuming that it’s something about me.” Phoenix said. Pinkie suddenly made a noise to bring the attention back to her.

“I thought I saw Applejack going to the hospital a few days ago with: Big Macintosh, Granny Smith and Apple Bloom. She told us that she wouldn’t visit you, because we all wanted to go as a group, but Applejack refused.” Pinkie explained, taking the situation seriously.

“Why would she refuse to visit Phoenix with us, but then go with her family?” Rarity asked. Phoenix wanted to get to the bottom of it all.

“I’ll catch up with you girls later. I’m going to get those questions answered." He walked down the country road until the orchard was finally in his sights. He could see why the Apple family loved the place so much. He looked across the fields and saw nothing, but the beauty of nature. And apples. Lots and lots of apples. He found the aroma of the fruits somewhat intoxicating, but he ignored it as he walked ever closer to the farm.

He walked through the entrance to see a large red barn directly in front of him, with pathways to different parts of the orchard on his left and right. Also on his right was a farmhouse. It looked old, but sturdy. It was obviously well built years ago, but Phoenix had another thought in mind. He could either find Applejack or somepony that could lead him to her. He walked to the house and looked through the window to see not the orange mare like he hoped, but a small, beige filly with a bright red mane and tail. She also had a comically large pink bow on the top of her head, tied into her mane. He walked to the porch and knocked on the door.

“Comin’!” A young, cheerful voice with an unmistakable accent said from the other side of the door. The door opened to reveal the filly who seemed to become uneasy within a few seconds. Phoenix disregarded it and remained polite with a kind smile.

“Hello there, young lady. You don’t know where I could find Applejack, do you?” Phoenix asked. The filly still seemed uneasy.

“What do you want with mah sister?” She asked back with a more worried tone than suspicious. Phoenix’s smile didn’t change.

“I just want to talk to her about something. Nothing serious. Sister... you wouldn’t happen to be Apple Bloom, would you?” Phoenix asked.

“How do you know mah name?” Apple Bloom asked.

“I’ve heard you name through the grape vine, as it were.” Phoenix was beginning to doubt that he was anonymous to her.

“You know who I am, don’t you?” Phoenix asked her genuinely. Apple Bloom looked surprised for a moment before nodding.

“Applejack took the family to the hospital to visit you. She said you were a liar. We were always taught by Granny that liars are bad ponies.” Apple Bloom explained as Phoenix listened intently. 

“I’ve noticed some strange behaviour from your sister. I just want to make sure that she’s alright, then I’ll get out of your hair.” Phoenix said honestly.

“...It’s you.” Apple Bloom said.

“What?” Phoenix replied.

“You’re the reason Applejack’s actin’ weird.”

“...How so?”

“...She thinks she hates you... but, she says she shouldn’t.”
> The Core of The Problem
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It took a few minutes of speaking with Apple Bloom until Phoenix finally understood. He finally understood why Applejack initially hated him and why she was so confused around him now. It was quite simple in the end, which caused Phoenix to figuratively kick himself for not getting it sooner. It was time to sit down and talk it out. Phoenix turned to Apple Bloom.

“I finally get it, Apple Bloom. Could you tell me where Applejack is, please?  I need to sort this out as soon as I can.” Phoenix’s tone was practically pleading to the young filly. Despite what she was told by her sister, Apple Bloom had a hard time not believing what Phoenix was saying. He just seemed so sincere.

“She’s over in the south orchard. Ah saw her walk over there about fifteen minutes ago. You’re… you’re not gonna hurt her… right?” Apple Bloom asked fearfully as her eyes began to water slightly. Phoenix put his hoof to her cheek.

“Apple Bloom, I Pinkie promise you. If I’m right, your sister and I could be friends by the end of the day. If not, I’ll never bother her again. I give you my word.” Phoenix made a cross motion over his heart and then placed his hoof over his eye. Apple Bloom went from afraid to confused. Phoenix seemed to pick up on it, though.

“I’ve been hanging around with Pinkie too long. But, I do give you my word.” Apple Bloom seemed to believe him once again. She reached her small hoof to his and shook it with an uneasy smile. Phoenix smiled back, but it changed into a sheepish smile when he had a thought.

“Which way’s the south orchard?” Phoenix asked awkwardly as he chuckled lightly. Apple Bloom giggled lightly and pointed to a dirt path lead to the south orchard. Phoenix nodded his thanks and began to walk down the path and saw how big the orchard was to scale. He was in awe at the size of orchards and the fact there were barely any workers. He hadn’t seen anypony on the farm other than Apple Bloom and she seemed too young for the manual labour required to keep the farm afloat. 

Phoenix was walking for a few minutes until he saw somepony. He was a huge stallion with a red coat and ginger mane and tail. His cutie mark was a half-cut green apple. Phoenix thought he saw sparkles on it at first, but he wasn’t sure. Phoenix walked towards the stallion in hopes that he knew Applejack’s location.

“Excuse me, sir?” Phoenix politely got the stallion’s attention. They both looked each other down for a second or two before the silence was broken.

“Who are you?” Phoenix asked.

“Big Macintosh. Folks call me Big Mac.” Big Mac replied.

“It’s good to meet you, Big Mac. Judging how you looked at me a moment ago, I assume you know me.” Phoenix said to him. Mac’s eyes widened ever so slightly before returning to normal.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac replied.

“So, I’m guessing you’re related to Applejack and she took you to the hospital to see me.”

“Eeyup.”

“Thought so. I’m here to make amends with her. Could you please tell me where she is?” Phoenix asked.

“Eeyup. Just keep walkin’ along this path and you’ll catch her.” Big Mac replied. Phoenix smiled and thanked him as he continued walking.

‘If that guy works on the farm, then I can see how they’ve stayed in business. It’s like he had muscles on his muscles.’ Phoenix thought to himself as he reached a section of the orchard that was filled with apple trees that were void of their fruit. Phoenix followed the trail of empty trees until he heard a single thud and rustling from a tree in front of him. The tree’s apples fell from the branches and landed neatly into the containers that were laid at the trunk of the tree. From behind the tree, the mare Phoenix was looking for walked into his view. Her gaze was on the apples, until she looked up and saw Phoenix looking at her.

“Wha… What are you doin’ here?” Applejack asked in complete shock. Phoenix didn’t move to prevent her getting any wrong ideas about his intentions.

“I know why you hate me. I understand. I understand everything about your confusion. I can help you.” Phoenix said. Applejack didn’t react other than stare in shock and amazement.

“You… you know why Ah feel confused?! Why?! Why do Ah feel this way?! Please, tell me!!” Applejack pleaded. She looked like she was ready to get on her knees and beg.

‘It must be really eating at her.’ Phoenix thought.

“Sit with me, I’ll explain.” Phoenix said kindly. Applejack let out a sigh of relief as she sat with Phoenix. When they were both seated on the grass under the recently bucked tree, Phoenix began to speak.

“Well, let me start by asking you something. You were always taught to be honest by your family, yes?” Phoenix asked. Applejack nodded.

“And that there are people who lie to get their way?” Another nod.

“Well, that’s the main problem. Not with how you’ve been raised, but you’ve been taught to generalise liars as bad ponies. Not a completely unfounded generalisation, mind you.” Phoenix said. Applejack seemed to be in thought for a moment or two.

“Yeah, ah guess so. But, what does that have to do with this weird feelin’ in mah gut?” Applejack questioned.

“Well, when you met me, you made a judgement on me based on how you’ve been brought up. However, when I had my lapse in judgement and attempted to protect you from Nightmare Moon, it went against what you been taught since your foalhood. You’ve come to accept that liars are conceited, vain and all-around arseholes. Then, when I put your lives before my own, in that moment you just couldn’t make sense of it. I’m not the same as how you were raised to expect me to be. That fact alone just confuses you. I’d like to help you see that I’m not like that. I’d like us to be friends.” Phoenix finished his explanation. A moment passed and the silence was practically palpable. She was simply looking at him as if he’d grown another head. 

She suddenly began chuckling weakly, until she was laughing loudly. Phoenix was unsure of what she was laughing at and nearly jumped out of his skin when she wrapped her forelegs around his neck. She had tears streaming down her face, but she also had a large smile.

“Ah… Ah see it now… Thank you…” Applejack said happily as her voice cracked slightly. Phoenix wrapped his forelegs around her and rubbed his hoof along her back and patted her back every now and again.

“Ah’m so sorry about how Ah’ve acted around-.” Applejack was cut off by Phoenix pulling her closer.

“Shh, shh, shh…” Phoenix gently shushed her in a comforting manner. When they finally let each other go, Phoenix just smiled at her.

“It’s not your fault. I forgive you.” Phoenix said. Applejack smiled and hugged him again, except much more gentle. A voice caught both of them off-guard.

“What’s going on here?” A male voice said in a somewhat offended tone. Phoenix and Applejack let go of each other and looked at the origin of the voice. The owner of the voice was a stallion with a coat that was similar to Apple Bloom’s and a chestnut brown mane and tail. His cutie mark was an image of three horseshoes.

“Oh, howdy, Caramel. This is Phoenix… a friend of mine.” Applejack smiled at Phoenix causing him to smile back.

“Right… Why were you two hugging just now?” Caramel asked suspiciously. Applejack rolled her eyes.

“He’s helped me deal with a problem Ah had with him. It was really getting to me and now Ah’m fine.” Applejack explained with an annoyed expression.

“Okay… Phoenix? Could you leave now? I need to speak to Applejack.” Caramel asked rudely. Applejack was about to say something, but Phoenix beat her to it.

“Certainly. I hope I see you around, Applejack.” Phoenix said kindly. Applejack seemed a little hesitant, but she gave him a quick hug and bade him farewell.

“Sure, I’ll see you ‘round, sugarcube.”  Applejack said kindly. But, while her back was turned to him, Caramel glared at Phoenix. If looks could kill, Phoenix would’ve been six feet under. Phoenix waved at her and walked away back the way he came. As he walked away, he could have sworn that he heard shouting and arguing back in the orchard. He decided that he shouldn’t get involved and kept walking. When he finally reached the house, he spotted both Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh. As he walked by, he smiled and nodded at them. They instantly knew that things had gone well with him and Applejack, so they smiled and waved as he walked back to the town. Phoenix waved back until he turned and kept walking away.

When he returned to Ponyville, he discovered that Pinkie had thrown him a ‘Glad-you’re-all-better-and-thanks-for-saving-us-from-certain-death’ party. Phoenix simply chuckled and joined in the fun. After half an hour of Phoenix joining the party, Applejack and Caramel joined in as well. Phoenix could tell that Caramel was very hesitant to join in as he hadn’t taken a liking to Phoenix. Applejack on the other hand, met Phoenix with a kind smile and a strong hoofshake.

“Well, it seems that I’ve gone from waste of space to treasured friend. My explanation didn’t affect you that much, did it?” Phoenix playfully questioned. Applejack simply nodded her head.

“Ah only thought Ah hated you, sugarcube. As soon as you explained the reason for the weird feelin’, Ah knew in mah heart o’ hearts that you were a good man and Ah was wrong about you. Jus’... tryin’ to make a good impression now.” Applejack explain with a nervous chuckle as she rubbed the back of her head with her hoof.

“You don’t need to do that, AJ. My impression of you is already good. I think you may be one of the strongest mares I know. Not just physically either. It takes a lot of strength to admit what we get things wrong or when we’re not enough to solve a problem.” Phoenix said with a reassuring smile. Caramel was seemingly seething next to Applejack, but she either paid him no mind or didn’t know how angry he seemed. Applejack’s cheeks turned a little red.

“Heh. Ah kinda learned that lesson a few days ago. Ah tried to harvest all of the apples at Sweet Apple Acres all by mahself. Nearly passed out a few times and brought chaos to the town, ‘cause Ah had no sleep.” Applejack explained in an embarrassed tone.

“Oh, believe me, I understand. In one of my old jobs, I went three days without sleep to get a job done. Didn’t really work well, because by the end of the third day, I was hallucinating.” Phoenix told the anecdote humorously.

“No way! You’re pullin’ mah leg, aren’t ya?” Applejack said, trying to control her laughter. Caramel’s frown seemed to deepen.

“I swear, I’m not! I was walking by my bed, and I thought I saw a fish. The fish then looked at me and said: ‘are you my mother?’, then it flew away. After that, I immediately jumped on the bed and went to sleep. I was afraid for my health!” Phoenix was laughing by the end of the sentence which in turn, sent Applejack into a fit of giggles. Caramel finally stepped in and rudely jabbed Phoenix to get his attention, but it barely affected Phoenix, he just stumbled for a second.

“Leave, I need to have a chat with Applejack.” Caramel growled. Applejack immediately scowled at him.

“If you didn’t want me to hug him, that's fine. But, now I can’t laugh with him?! Next, you won’t want me talkin’ to him!” Applejack shouted. The sound drew some attention from the nearby ponies.

“You read my mind, Applejack! I don’t want you going near him! He- he could hurt you!” Phoenix noticed a slight falter, signifying him that Caramel was lying about something. Though, he didn’t really need to hear the statement to know he was lying.

“That’s a bunch o’ ponyfeathers and you know it! You just don’t want me havin’ any friends who’re stallions!” Applejack argued. The party had stopped around them and everypony was watching the argument.

“I’m your coltfriend! I can’t let you be around stallions who could take advantage of you!” Caramel shouted. Pinkie looked the most offended out of everypony, even Phoenix.

“Hey! I’ve known Phoenix for years and he’d never do that!” Pinkie shouted angrily. Phoenix was about to talk her down, but she had already stomped towards Caramel.

“Stay outta this!” Caramel shouted loudly at her.

“No! I’m gonna make sure that everypony knows you’re wro-.” Pinkie’s sentence was interrupted by Caramel’s hoof slapping her face. She wasn’t expecting the strike, causing her to fall on her back in surprise. Caramel couldn’t make another move, because Phoenix was already at his throat. Literally. Caramel was being held in the air by his neck, because of Phoenix’s magic. Caramel was panicking about the fact that Phoenix could actually kill him and the furious look on Phoenix’s face and the hatred in his eyes made Caramel think that he might’ve.

“Phoenix, put him down!” Twilight pleaded. Phoenix complied after a few seconds, his look of murderous fury changed to an angry scowl.

“As you wish.” Phoenix said as he dropped Caramel like a ton of bricks. Phoenix then brought Caramel’s attention to him.

“I find your lack of restraint disturbing.” Phoenix growled as he walked away. Applejack seemed to be glaring. Phoenix was about to apologise, but Applejack walked past him, towards Caramel. She pulled him by the hoof, causing him to stand, then slapped him in the face, just like he did Pinkie.

‘Ooh, with how muscle-y she is, I almost feel sorry for him. Almost.’ Phoenix thought as Caramel fell to the ground again. She turned tail and walked away from Caramel.

“Nopony does that to mah friends! Nopony!” Applejack shouted and stormed out of Sugarcube Corner. Caramel quickly picked himself up and ran after her. Everypony in the room remained silent as Phoenix knelt next to Pinkie and nursed the growing bruise on her cheek. The party ended after that and everypony left silently.

Phoenix walked straight to his house, straight to his bed and had mixed feelings about the day. He decided to check in with both Pinkie and Applejack in the morning.

But, that could wait. Phoenix had a date with the Sandpony.
> Old Friends And New Jobs
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

A piercingly loud ringing shook Phoenix out of his sleep. He groggily looked around to see his house phone was ringing. He grumpily picked up the phone and put it to his face.

“Ahoy?” Phoenix asked sleepily.

“Phoenix, is that you?” A voice said on the other end, but her accent made Phoenix know immediately who was calling him.

“Applejack? Why and how are you calling me?” Phoenix asked as his senses were slowly starting to awaken.

“Pinkie gave me your number. Ah know its last minute, but Ah need to ask a favour!” Applejack said in a voice that was dripping with stress. It instantly caught Phoenix’s attention.

“Alright, AJ, calm down. What do you need?” Phoenix asked, his drowsiness forgotten.

“Ah’m swamped with mah chores and Ah can’t take Apple Bloom to school today. Ah can’t stand the thought of her goin’ alone! Please, could you take her?” Applejack pleaded. Phoenix looked at his clock to see that it was 7:30.

‘Well, it’s not like I’ll get back to sleep.’ Phoenix thought.

“It’ll take about ten minutes to get to the farm; but yeah, I’ll take her.” Phoenix said calmly as he climbed out of his bed.

“Oh, Phoenix, you’re a lifesaver! Ah can’t thank you enough right now!” Applejack said with a massive amount of relief filling her voice.

“It’s okay. I’m on my way.” Phoenix hung up the phone and used his magic to get a black shirt from his wardrobe. After he buttoned it, he remembered that he needed to get his fedora back from Rarity that day. She’d approached him during the party on the previous day to tell him that she was washing and repairing it, as it was worse for wear because of his fall through the window. He walked out of his door, locked it and walked straight to the Acres. As he walked, a large gust of wind and a rainbow trail zoomed past him at break-neck speed. He panicked and took a detour towards an alleyway. Seconds later, he saw Pinkie Pie calmly trotting after the blur, which Phoenix assumed was Rainbow Dash.

The bruise on Pinkie’s face was still present, which caused Phoenix to remember that he wanted to talk to her today. He decided that he’d talk to her after he was finished escorting Apple Bloom to school. Phoenix quickly remembered the way to the farmhouse and began to trot there to save time. After a few minutes, the familiar smell of apples reached his nose and his vision was filled with trees. He kept his pace fairly quick as he walked down the path through the Acres to reach the barn. When he reached the barn, he saw Applejack and Big Macintosh hard at work. Mac was the first to notice Phoenix as he trotted closer, so he nudged Applejack to get her attention. When she looked at him, he pointed to Phoenix, causing her to smile widely.

“Phoenix! Am Ah ever glad to see you!” Applejack exclaimed.

“A week ago, you probably wouldn’t have said that. You need me to walk Apple Bloom to school?” Phoenix asked. Applejack and Macintosh continued to work as Applejack talked to Phoenix, leading him to come to the conclusion that they really were swamped and not the largest amount of time to do it in.

“Yeah, she’s over at the house. Hopefully, she’s gettin’ ready. School starts at half eight. If she’s ready, ya should get there with time to spare.” Applejack said.

“I bet you wish you had some time to spare.” Phoenix said with a sympathetic smile. Applejack replied with a normal smile.

“Eh, it’s gotta be done. May as well enjoy it!” Applejack said happily. Phoenix was taken aback for a second before smiling and walking towards the farmhouse. He turned the handle and slowly walked inside, looking for any sign of Apple Bloom. It was then he heard light hoofsteps that were pitter-patting down the stairs. He looked towards the stairs to see the filly in question running around doing a mental checklist.

“Right! Ah’ve got ev’rythin’!” She exclaimed suddenly.

“Good. Looks like we’re ready to go then.” Phoenix said. His voice seemed to make the filly jump as she looked at him.

“Mr Fortesque? What’re you doin’ here?” Apple Bloom asked curiously. Phoenix shrugged.

“Sorry, Apple Bloom. Your sister tried to get anypony to walk you to school and she could only get me.” Phoenix explained with a sympathetic tone.

“Alright, then! Let’s get goin’!” Apple Bloom said with a large grin as she ran to the door. Phoenix quickly followed her so he wouldn’t lose her. She stopped running as they walked together through the orchards. Phoenix and Bloom were caught off-guard when a voice came from the orchard to their left.

“Hey, Apple Bloom! You be good! Have fun, and remember: an apple a day…!” Applejack shouted from the orchard. Bloom smiled and responded.

“…Keeps trouble away! Bye!” Bloom shouted back.

“And you be nice to Phoenix! He didn’t have to do this favour for us!” Applejack shouted.

“Ah will!” Apple Bloom replied. Phoenix and Apple Bloom kept walking for a few moments before Apple Bloom spoke again.

“Thank you for takin’ me to school, Mr Fortesque.” Apple Bloom said gratefully. Phoenix let out a lone chuckle.

“You don’t need to be so formal with me, Apple Bloom. Just ‘Phoenix’ will do.” Phoenix said with a smile. Apple Bloom smiled back and nodded.

“So, which way to the school?” Phoenix asked the little filly.

“It’s this way, down that path.” Apple Bloom replied. The two walked in comfortable silence and minor small talk until they finally reached the schoolhouse. They both saw numerous fillies and colts playing in the field outside of the school. Phoenix looked at the time to see that it was 8:10.

“School hasn’t started, Bloom. Why don’t you go play?” Phoenix said.

“Okay. Thanks, Phoenix!” Apple Bloom said happily.

“You enjoy your first day back, okay? What time does your day finish?” Phoenix asked.

“About three in the afternoon.” Apple Bloom replied.

“Tell you what; I’ll be here to pick you up. Give your sister a bit of a rest.” Phoenix said with a chuckle. Apple Bloom giggled as she ran towards the field, waving at Phoenix as she did so. Phoenix watched her for a second to see if she would be okay, before looking back at the way he came and began to walk. Something caught his eye, however.

A ‘help wanted’ sign in the window of the schoolhouse.

‘Well, I do need a job.’ Phoenix thought. He finally shrugged and walked into the building. He saw numerous desks lined up in columns and rows with a larger desk at the front of the room with a computer placed on top. At that desk was a mare with purple coat, pink mane and tail and a cutie mark of three smiling sunflowers. Phoenix’s heart flared for a second.

“Cheerilee?!” Phoenix asked excitedly. Cheerilee instantly looked up and stared in awe at the stallion before beaming, running to him and wrapping him in her hooves.

“Phoenix! It’s so great see you!” Cheerilee beamed as she squeezed him.

“You too, Cheerilee. How long have you been working here? Why haven’t I seen you?” Phoenix asked her. They let go of each other as Cheerilee began to speak.

“I moved back to Ponyville from Idahoof yesterday. This is my first day teaching here. I didn’t know if you were still here or if you moved back to Canterlot.” Cheerilee said as she sat back down in her seat and Phoenix took a seat near her.

“No. I visited the old place a lot, but I never moved back. I did manage to put two criminal casinos out of business, I won so much. I then used those winnings to anonymously fund royal projects around Canterlot.” Phoenix explained. Cheerilee giggled.

“If there’s something you know, its cards isn’t it, Phoenix?” Cheerilee asked fondly. Phoenix chuckled. Cheerilee then sent him a questioning look.

“What are you doing here at the schoolhouse?” Cheerilee asked.

“Well, I originally came to drop off the sister of one of my friends, because she was swamped with work. But, I saw a sign that some help is needed here. What’s the job?” Phoenix asked. Cheerilee was beaming again as soon as Phoenix mentioned the ‘help wanted’ sign.

“It’s the role of student councillor. You could do that! Don’t you have a degree in psychology?” Cheerilee asked excitedly. Phoenix chuckled again.

“I do have a degree in psychology and one in law. Are you sure I’d be good enough for the job?” Phoenix asked modestly and with uncertainty. Cheerilee waved her hoof dismissively.

“Of course you are! I know your qualifications backwards, just like you know mine. I know your perfect for the job!” Cheerilee replied, her enthusiasm not wavering for a second.

“Well, I only know yours right way around, but I get your point.” Phoenix smirked. Cheerilee simply groaned at the terrible joke.

“So, when can you start?” Cheerilee asked. Phoenix thought for a moment.

“How’s tomorrow? And do you have files on the kids? I’d like to know as much as I can about them if I’m gonna be able to help them.” Phoenix proposed.

“Excellent! Hold on a second.” Cheerilee began to rummage around in her desk. Phoenix’s eyes seemed to drift to her flank as she wasn’t looking before returning to her head.

‘I think she’s lost weight. Not that she had much to begin with.’ Phoenix thought casually. Cheerilee finally re-emerged with a file in her mouth. She dropped the file on the desk and addressed Phoenix again.

“This file contains a small profile of each child. Are you going to study it and come back tomorrow?” Cheerilee asked. Phoenix took the file with his magic.

“Sure. Back here at the same time?” Phoenix asked to which Cheerilee nodded.

“Great. I have to go now, Cherry. I’ve things I need to do today and your kids will be here any second.” Phoenix joked. Cheerilee chuckled and the two hugged for a second. Or two. Or five.

“Look, everypony! The teacher’s got a coltfriend!” A young filly said loudly. The filly had a pink coat, a purple and white mane and tail with a tiara on top and no cutie mark. Phoenix and Cheerilee let go of each other and smiled as the children laughed.

“He wishes.”
“She wishes.” The two said at the same time, both of them chuckling as they did so. Phoenix made sure he had the file, and then began to walk out of the classroom. As he left, Apple Bloom smiled and waved, causing him to wave back. On his way back to town, Phoenix noticed Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash outside town hall. Spike was running around trying to pick up several scrolls, but he was hiccupping, causing flames to emerge from his mouth. Each time he hiccupped, any scrolls he was carrying became magical energy and flew towards Canterlot.

And Pinkie and Rainbow were practically wetting themselves.

Pinkie was about to speak as the laughter was subsiding, but both Rainbow’s and Pinkie’s attentions were brought to Phoenix as he walked to them and Spike sulkily walked away.

“Hey, girls. How’re you doing?” Phoenix asked. Rainbow dropped herself from the cloud and walked in front of Phoenix as Pinkie bounced towards him.

“We’re fine. We were just playing an awesome prank on Spike!” Rainbow said excitedly.

“We scared him into getting the hiccups!” Pinkie said, still giggling. Phoenix didn’t smile however. He wanted to, but his eyes still drifted to Pinkie’s bruise. Pinkie seemed to realise.

“Feenie, you don’t have to worry. I’m fine! I was just surprised, that’s all. Not the good kind of surprise either.” Pinkie said in a calm, sweet tone. Phoenix nodded in understanding.

“Yeah, I hope Applejack gives Caramel what’s comin’ to him! If she doesn’t, I sure as hay will!” Rainbow announced angrily.

“Sorry, Rainbow, you’ll have to get in line.” Phoenix replied to her.

“I suppose. You looked like you were ready to rip his head off yesterday!” Rainbow said, but she sounded too proud of Phoenix’s actions for him to take the conversation seriously.

“You say that like it’s a good thing.” Phoenix said with a raised eyebrow. Rainbow looked around and motioned Pinkie and Phoenix to come closer. When they complied she began to whisper.

“We all know that Caramel keeps trying to control her, but I’ve heard that he cheats on her!” Rainbow exclaimed quietly. Pinkie gasped loudly while Phoenix’s jaw dropped.

“What a mean, meanie pants! We have to tell Applejack!” Pinkie exclaimed.

“I doubt Applejack will listen to us, unless we have solid proof. And even then, she may be too offended by us suggesting it that she might not listen to us.” Phoenix commented.

“Well…” Rainbow interjected. Pinkie’s and Phoenix’s attention was brought back to her.

“I’ve heard that AJ doesn’t love him anymore. I think she’s wanted to break up with him for a while. I think evidence of him cheating on her will give her the opportunity that she wants.” Rainbow explained. Phoenix’s expression became one of thought. Pinkie began asking Rainbow about how they’d get evidence, but Phoenix was already hatching a plan. It would require his old equipment from his time as a lawyer, but it seemed to be the only way he could think of.

He’d catch him in the act.

“Yo, Nick! You in there?” Rainbow said loudly as she knocked on his head. He was immediately brought back to reality.

“I think I may have an idea about catching him in the act.” Phoenix said. Rainbow and Pinkie looked at each other before looking back at Phoenix with excited expressions.

“What’s the idea?” The two mares asked enthusiastically. Phoenix simply scoffed slightly before replying.

“Devil’s advocate.”
> Of Mice And Men
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Well, that’s everypony. Hard to believe I got through them all.” Phoenix said to himself. He was set the children’s files down and rose to his hooves. He arched his back and twisted his neck, causing the room to fill with the sound of his bones cracking numerous times in succession and the satisfied sigh that escaped his throat. He looked to the clock to see that the time was drawing ever closer to three o’clock. Phoenix walked out of house once again only to nearly bump into Rarity.

“Oh! Well, darling; I was hoping I’d see you, but not that closely.” Rarity said with a titter. Phoenix chuckled as he began to lock his door.

“Well, here I am. To what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you today, Rarity?” Phoenix said with a charming smile. Rarity’s cheeks turned a very faint shade of pink as she giggled.

“Oh, stop it, you. I’m here to give this back to you.” Rarity said with a smile as she handed Phoenix’s fedora in her magic. Phoenix gave a smile that was larger than she’d ever seen from him, which still wasn’t that large. He placed the hat onto his head and suddenly wrapped his hooves around her, surprising her.

“Thank you, Rarity. You didn’t have to do this for me, but you did. I… I don’t know what to say.” Phoenix said, clearly over the moon with joy, despite his face not showing it.

“I-It’s perfectly alright, darling. I must say… you’re a lot more huggable than you look. It’s like I just want to hug you more now.” Rarity admitted. Phoenix chuckled in his usual quiet way.

“Everyone is like that after their first hug with me. Ponies assume that I don’t even want to go near others, but truth be told, I love hugging.” Phoenix stated. Rarity looked a little more surprised.

“Really? I wouldn’t have seen that coming. Well, dear, I hate to cut this short, but I must pick Sweetie Belle up from school.” Rarity said as she began to walk. Phoenix trotted to her side.

“I was going to see if Apple Bloom needed picking up. Walk and talk?” Phoenix offered as he matched her pace.

“Of course! You needn’t ask, darling.” Rarity smiled.





Phoenix and Rarity approached the schoolhouse where several children were waiting for their parents. From the crowd, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom ran towards them. Sweetie jumped into Rarity’s forehooves and hugged her.

“That’s the second time today that somepony’s taken you by surprise with a hug, isn’t it?” Phoenix said with a snicker.

“Actually, I’ve always known how affectionate Sweetie can be. You, I had no idea.” Rarity said. Phoenix chuckled. He then proceeded to greet Apple Bloom and take her back to Sweet Apple Acres. When they arrived, they saw Applejack and Big Macintosh breathing heavily outside of the farmhouse, glasses of apple juice in hoof. Apple Bloom immediately ran to them and hugged the two of them.

They remained that way for a moment before Big Mac looked to Phoenix.

“Did she behave herself, Mr Phoenix?” Mac asked. Phoenix let out a single quiet chuckle.

“Good as gold. And you can drop the ‘Mr’, Macintosh. I’m not a teacher… yet.” Phoenix replied. It earned a confused expression from the Apples. Phoenix then winked at Apple Bloom, causing her to chuckle.

“Well, sorry, Apples. But, I have to go. Hey, AJ, you haven’t seen Caramel around have you?” Phoenix asked.

“No. Ah think he’s in town, though. Why?” Applejack seemed less chipper when Caramel was brought into conversation.

“I wanted to apologise. Maybe treat him to a trip to the casino.” Phoenix replied.

“Seriously? He doesn’t deserve it.” Applejack replied. Phoenix, for some reason really hated seeing Applejack so down. He decided to be honest with her. He motioned for her to follow him as he walked further into the orchard. When they reached a far enough distance from the farmhouse, Phoenix sighed and turned to her.

“I’m going to be honest with you, AJ. I was going to tempt Caramel to cheat on you and then record the evidence, that way you would be justified to break up with him and you can stop being saddened by his actions…” Phoenix stopped speaking for a moment. Applejack was looking at him in disbelief.

“Yeah, when I say it out loud, I sound like a fucking dick. I didn’t think of it that way. Please, feel free to hit me.” Phoenix closed his eyes and braced himself for a hit.

It never came.

He opened his eyes to see Applejack simply giving him a sympathetic smile.

“You haven’t had much experience with friends, have you?” Applejack asked kindly. Phoenix got over his confusion induced speechlessness and shook his head.

“Even less with relationships.” Phoenix replied.

“You don’t need to worry about me. Ah already planned on breakin’ up with him. You don’t need to make up a scheme to do it for me.” Applejack said with a little chuckle. Phoenix seemed to lower his head slightly. His eyes were directed to the ground.

He didn’t want her to see.

He then felt a hoof gently push his face to make him look at Applejack. That was when she saw them. The tears. Phoenix’s eyes were filled with tears. Not tears of sadness, not tears of happiness, or anger. But, of shame.

“I’m so sorry. How can I make it up to you?” Phoenix somewhat pleaded. Applejack immediately recognised the situation. One desperately trying and practically begging to get something from the other, be it information or forgiveness.

‘If he feels anythin’ like Ah did. Ah can’t keep him in suspense.’ Applejack thought. She then wrapped her forelegs around Phoenix who flinched at the contact.

“You were tryin’ to look out for me. And you were honest with me, too. Ah forgive you. It’s not your fault.” Applejack simply held him in her forelegs and she saw that he was restraining himself from something. But, eventually his tears escaped his eyes and he silently sobbed into her chest. She’d never seen him so expressive as long as she’d known him, however it saddened her to know that the biggest emotions she saw from him were sorrow and shame.

Phoenix eventually let go of Applejack and looked at her with his blue eyes being tainted by a puffy, red hue.

“I’m going home. I need to be alone for a while.” He began to walk away, but Applejack grabbed his hoof in her own.

“Wait, you don’t have to! Ah’ve forgiven you!” She said, trying to cheer him up.

Silence fell. It was like all the sound in Equestria had stopped for a moment.

“I’m sorry, Applejack. But, I haven’t…” Phoenix said sulkily as he continued to walk. He walked slowly from Sweet Apple Acres all the way back to Ponyville. Phoenix was surrounded by happy faces, a complete contrast to his own. He eventually reached his house and shut himself inside.

He wasn’t expecting his annual choice to be changed to that day.

He walked to his room, shut the door, shut the curtains and turned out the lights. He then looked to his right to see that his father’s gun wasn't on his bedside table. He’d discovered it was in his jacket pocket when he put it on the previous day. Using his magic, he lifted the gun, checked its chambers for ammunition and pointed it to his left temple.

Time seemed to slow as he contemplated his annual question.

‘Should I?’

He kept the revolver locked on as he looked around the room for anything he thought added to his worth. For the first time in a few years, he was having trouble. Until something golden caught his eye.

His ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala.

His depressed thoughts were interrupted by a mental image of the girls. He may not know all of them or most of them that well. But, one thought was overtaking his mind. They would miss him. He thought about each of the girls and realised that they would all miss him if he did it.

For the first time in forever, he had numerous friends and realised how much it would hurt them if he ended his life. The dark part of his mind tried to reason that they would be better off without him, but he found that those thoughts were much quieter than usual. The gun slowly hovered away from Phoenix’s head and onto the bedside table.

Phoenix’s gaze remained on the weapon for a moment before he heard something by the doorway.

A sigh of relief.

> Busted
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix slowly turned his head to see Pinkie Pie standing in the doorway with a hoof to her chest, trying to control her breathing.

“Thank Faust! I was afraid I was too late this time!” Pinkie gasped as she walked into the room and wrapped her forelegs around Phoenix. He sighed, but smiled slightly as he lightly reciprocated the action.

“What happened, Phoenix? Danger Night isn’t for a few months.” Pinkie asked.

“I think Danger Night’s cancelled for this year, Pinkie. I managed to set myself straight.” Phoenix replied, stroking Pinkie’s mane to assure her that everything was fine.

“So, you don’t think we’ll have to worry for a while?” Pinkie asked hopefully. Phoenix remained quiet for a while.

“You know I can’t be sure. I wish I could be, but neither of us were expecting tonight.” Phoenix replied. Pinkie seemed to droop when she saw the logic of the reply. Phoenix seemed to pick up on it and pulled her into another hug and kissed her on the forehead like a parent would do to calm their child. Pinkie snuggled into Phoenix’s chest and began to tear up and shiver.

“I... I’m just afraid that one day I’ll come and realise... that I came too late.” Pinkie cried into his chest. Phoenix was about to reply, but a sound of clattering drew both Phoenix’s and Pinkie’s attention back to the door. Standing there, shocked that she’d knocked over an ornament off of a table near the door, was Applejack. She fumbled with the ornament for a moment before looking towards Phoenix and Pinkie with shocked eyes as they looked back with the same expression.

Phoenix’s face finally became stoic before he broke the horrible silence.

“How long have you been there?” He asked expressionlessly. Applejack knew that he was merely hiding his emotions, but it still intimidated her to her him sound so cold.

“L-long enough. About ‘Danger Night’?” Applejack replied nervously. Despite taking a liking to the stallion, Phoenix scared her a little. She could never tell what he was thinking when he went into ‘poker face mode’. Phoenix sighed and tapped the bed with his hoof, inviting her to sit. When she did, Phoenix stood and looked at Pinkie.

“Do you think she should know?” Phoenix asked Pinkie.

“I think all of our friends should.” Pinkie replied. Phoenix saw an opportunity to try and lighten the mood.

“Maybe not. You’re friends with the whole town, remember?” Phoenix said with a very faint smile.

“Oh, yeah. Maybe all of your friends should know.” Pinkie replied, giggling slightly.

“Well, what do you want to know?” Phoenix asked Applejack.

“Well, ah’d like to know what ’Danger Night’ is.” Applejack requested, trying to stay calm.

“Answer for an answer. What are you doing here anyway?” Phoenix questioned.

“Ah was worried when you left. Ah couldn’t decide whether or not to follow you. When Ah made it here, you an’ Pinkie talkin’ ‘bout ‘Danger Night'. Ah walked toward the door to listen better, but Ah knocked that thing over an’... Ah guess you know the rest.” Applejack explained. Phoenix looked into her eyes for a moment, but it was the longest moment of Applejack’s life. Having his bright blue eyes bore into her emerald green ones gave her a strange feeling in her stomach. She dismissed it, however when Phoenix’s gaze seemed to lose its intensity and broke to silence.

“Thank you for your honesty, AJ. I guess I’d better start explaining. Danger Night is just another name that we use for September 1st. It’s the day when I look in my mirror, put my father’s gun to my temple and contemplate whether or not to blow my head open.” Phoenix explained. Applejack just looked horrified.

“What?!” Applejack screamed.

“But, sometimes when I feel particularly down, I reschedule the date. Like tonight.” Phoenix continued.

“Why tonight?” Applejack asked worriedly. She couldn’t predict this stallion in the least.

“It sounds like nothing. But... I was feeling guilty after I told you my plan today.” Phoenix said. Applejack’s face immediately went to sympathy.

“But, Ah said I forgave you!” Applejack said and placed her hoof to Phoenix’s cheek.

“And I said that I hadn’t. I just felt too guilty.” Phoenix replied. He gently took hold of her hoof and moved it from his face. He slowly walked to the window to see the sunset in the distance and sighed. A moment later he felt both Pinkie and Applejack wrap their hooves around him. He looked at them and gave a small smile.

“Come on, girls. I think we all just need to cheer up a bit.” Phoenix said softly. The girls slowly agreed and they began to converse and tell funny stories. They started to lighten up and after a while, were smiling and laughing to their hearts content. When Pinkie looked back at the window, she saw that the sun had set a while ago, leaving the moon and stars in its place. However, there were also dark raincloud that were releasing their contents all over the town.

“Look how late it is! I’ve gotta get home! I’m gonna have so much fun with Dashie tomorrow!” Pinkie announced enthusiastically. Phoenix and Applejack looked to the window and acknowledged the time and the weather.

“Hold on. I’ll get my brolly and I’ll walk you two home.” Phoenix said.

“Phoenix, you don’t have to do that.” Applejack offered and Pinkie nodded in agreement. Phoenix simply shook his head.

“Nah. The walk’ll do me good. Besides, I like the sound of the rain.” Phoenix replied. He didn’t wait for a response before he used his magic to lift an umbrella towards him. The girls agreed and all walk out of the door, all making sure to stay under the protection of the umbrella. They walked for a while before reaching Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie lowered her voice to prevent disturbing her employers.

“See you guys tomorrow. Keep your chin up, Phoenix.” Pinkie said softly before she entered the cafe. Phoenix and Applejack waved before beginning to walk to Sweet Apple Acres. Before they reached the edge of town however, they saw a mare and a stallion passionately kissing outside of the Prancing Parasprite, Ponyville’s local tavern. As they walked, the light coming from the tavern allowed them to see who it was. The mare had a turquoise coat, with a cream mane and tail and a cutie mark of two yellow lightning bolts. The stallion however...

...Was Caramel.

Applejack and Phoenix simply looked at him in shock from across the road as the rain lashed against the umbrella. Phoenix was the first to regain his senses as he looked to Applejack, but she simply blinked and shook her head to regain her senses. She looked back at Phoenix.

“Well, Ah didn’t see that comin’.” Applejack said in a strangely casual voice. The two began to walk again as Phoenix simply looked at Applejack with a questioning look.

“You’re taking this remarkably well.” Phoenix said sceptically. Applejack turned to him and shrugged.

“Ah did say Ah planned on breakin’ up with him. Ah don’t see why Ah should care that much.” Applejack replied.

“You’re not that cold, Applejack. Don’t lie to me.” Phoenix replied in a level tone.

“…Alright, Ah’m a little hurt, but Ah still don’t care that much!” Applejack emphasised.

“That’s better. You should know better than to try to lie to me.” Phoenix said.

“Why? ‘Cause you can see through any lie?” Applejack asked sarcastically.

“No, you’re just shit at lying.” Phoenix chuckled. Applejack simply narrowed her eyes as she tried to keep a smile off of her face.

“Bastard.” Applejack chuckled. Phoenix put one of his hooves to his mouth and gasped dramatically.

“Applejack said a naughty word! I should tell your family!” Phoenix announced dramatically. Applejack openly laughed as Phoenix looked back at her and smiled. When they reached the farmhouse, Phoenix shook the umbrella to dry it off when they were under the porch.

“You gonna be okay?” Applejack asked. Phoenix simply smiled and nodded.

“Yeah. I’ll be back to pick up Apple Bloom tomorrow.” Phoenix replied.

“Why’s that?” Applejack asked in confusion.

“I’m the new student councillor. I think she’ll be surprised to see me there.” Phoenix said and smiled. Applejack giggled.

“Yeah, Ah think she will be. Goodnight, Phoenix.” Applejack said as she started to walk through the front door.

“Goodnight, AJ.” Phoenix replied. He opened the umbrella once again and began to walk back to town as the rain continued to pour down onto him. He looked to the sky and saw the full moon gleaming down upon him.

‘Tomorrow’s a new day. And I won’t be one to miss it.’ Phoenix thought with determination and a serene smile.
> Griffon The Brush-Off
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sound of a loud series of beeps with regular intervals filled Phoenix’s room. He sleepily slammed his hoof on his alarm clock, silencing it. He groggily sat up and saw the time on his clock. 7:00. Phoenix sighed as he began to freshen himself up. He allowed the warm stream of water pour onto him as he walked into his shower and let the sudden sensation remove the drowsiness from his eyes and his mind. As he walked back into his room, he used his magic to make a small ring of fire around him and remained still for a few seconds and then he let it dissipate.

Now completely dry, Phoenix combed his coat, his mane and tail to their usual neat state. He opened his wardrobe and began to search through his clothes until he found a clean, grey suit jacket with a white shirt and black necktie.

‘I can’t believe I don’t wear this beauty more often.’ Phoenix thought with a smile.

He quickly donned the suit, but as he finished tying his tie in front of his mirror, there was a knock at the door. He quickly checked his suit one more time and walked to the door and opening it. Rarity and Sweetie Belle were standing at his door. Sweetie Belle smiled widely and waved at him, while Rarity’s eyes widened slightly as her cheeks acquired a slight red hue. Phoenix chuckled and leaned a little closer to her.

“Rarity, your cheeks have gone a rather handsome shade of red.” Phoenix whispered. Rarity’s cheeks became an even deeper shade as her senses returned.

“S-sorry, darling! I-I’ve just never seen you in a suit before. It’s very becoming on you, Phoenix.” Rarity stammered.

“Thank you, Rarity. Good to know that it meets your fashion standards. So, what are you doing here?” Phoenix asked.

“Well, I was going to drop Sweetie Belle to school and I was wondering if you wanted to join me.” Rarity said.

“Well, I was going to head to Sweet Apple Acres and take Apple Bloom to school. Care a little longer walk?” Phoenix replied.

“Well… I suppose it’s alright with me. Sweetie, what do you think? Do you want to go to Sweet Apple Acres and walk with Apple Bloom?” Rarity asked.

“Uh… Okay! Is she nice?” Sweetie asked.

“Yeah. I think you’ll get along well, actually.” Phoenix said softly as he used his magic to place his saddlebags on his back and then locking his door.

“Then, let’s go!” Sweetie said excitedly and ran ahead.

“Sweetie, slow down!” Rarity’s statement fell upon deaf ears as Sweetie continued to run. Phoenix and Rarity simply walked and talked as they followed Sweetie to the farm. As they walked, they saw Rainbow Dash flying over them and waved to her. Amazingly, she noticed them and swooped down and landed in front of them.

“Hey guys. Diggin’ the suit, Nix.” Rainbow greeted.

“…'Nix?’” Phoenix asked.

“Yeah. Y’know? A nickname.” Rainbow replied.

“I already have a nickname from Pinkie that I’ll never get rid of. I don’t need another one, thank you.” Phoenix replied.

“Alright, alright. I wasn’t really sure of it, myself. So where are you two going?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, we’re taking Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom to school.” Rarity answered.

“So, you’re taking the kids to school? You’re like an old married couple!” Rainbow began to cackle. Rarity’s cheeks went slightly pink as she and Phoenix gave her unamused looks.

“Are you done?” Phoenix asked. Rainbow let out a few small chuckles before nodding.

“What are doing up this early, Rainbow Dash?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Oh, I’m meeting an old friend of mine. She should be arriving soon. Her name’s Gilda.” Rainbow replied excitedly.

“Where did you meet her?” Phoenix asked, now curious.

“We met back in flight school. She was one of the only griffins there.” Rainbow said.

“Griffin?” Phoenix asked.

“Yeah, so if you see a griffin around here today, it’ll probably be Gilda. Sorry, guys. Gotta go!” Rainbow said quickly as she flew at incredible speeds towards the train station. Phoenix and Rarity shrugged and continued to walk to the Acres. When they reached the farmhouse, they saw Applejack  already hard at work.

“Applejack, darling, I will never know how you can have so much energy this early in the morning.” Rarity said with admiration.

“Aw, shucks Rarity, Ah’ve just gotten used to it Ah guess.” Applejack replied shyly. Apple Bloom emerged from the house with her schoolbags on her back.

“Ah thought Ah heard voices out here.” Apple Bloom said as she walked to her sister.

“Hey, AB. I’ve recruited a few more ponies to walk with us today.” Phoenix said. Both of the Apple sisters’ eyes were then drawn to Phoenix and what he was wearing. Apple Bloom was a little confused why he was wearing it, but Applejack’s eyes widened as her cheeks changed to a slight red shade. Bloom noticed and then had an urge to do something all siblings do at least once in their lives.

Tease each other.

“Applejack, you’re face’s almost the same colour as Big Mac’s!” Apple Bloom said loudly and laughed. Sweetie giggled, Phoenix chuckled quietly, while Rarity tried to hold in her laughter and hide her smile with her hoof. Applejack sent an annoyed glance at her sister as her face grew redder.

“Don’t worry AJ; Rarity had the same response to the suit.” Phoenix said and smirked as Rarity stopped smiling, blushed and scowled at Phoenix. After everypony calmed down, they all waved Applejack goodbye as they headed to the schoolhouse. As they arrived, the girls immediately ran to the schoolyard and began to play. Sweetie even pointed to a pegasus filly in the distance and motioned Apple Bloom to follow her to meet her. Rarity began to walk away back to town as she waved Phoenix goodbye.

Phoenix walked straight into the classroom and was met with the sight of Cheerilee writing on the chalkboard. He smirked as he slowly tip-hoofed closer to her until he silently inhaled, leaned closer to her ear and blew into it. Cheerilee jumped nearly a foot in the air as she squealed. She breathed heavily for a moment before looking back at Phoenix.

“Was that necessary, Phoenix?” Cheerilee asked with a gasp. 

“Short answer: yes. Long answer: hell yes.” Phoenix chuckled as Cheerilee scrunched her face in an annoyed look, but Phoenix found it adorable, making him laugh more. As he laughed, Cheerilee’s face scrunched all the more to prevent a smile emerging on her face, however her defences were slowly, but surely cracking. Until...

She burst out laughing.

They laughed and laughed and were showing no signs of stopping, until the school bell rang through the school and the surrounding area. As they calmed down, Phoenix noticed another large desk, not unlike Cheerilee’s at the back of the classroom with the label: “Student Councillor” on top of it.

“If you take a seat, I’ll introduce you to the children all at once.” Cheerilee said with a smile. Phoenix nodded as he removed his bags and placed them under the desk. He then removed something from his jacket pocket and placed it on his face. Cheerilee looked at Phoenix with confusion. Specifically, the glasses on his face. Phoenix gave her a deadpan look.

“I need them to read.” Phoenix said monotonously as he took his seat. As the fillies and colt began to walk in and take their seats, Phoenix kept his head down and pretended to be taking notes like an inspector would.

He was a sucker for theatricality.

“Children, I’d like to introduce you to our new student councillor. If you have any kind of problem with your work, you come to me, but if you have a more personal problem, then you can always turn to him. So, say hello to: Mr Fortesque.” Cheerilee announced as she looked out upon the class and pointed towards Phoenix. He looked up to let the children see his face and smile kindly to them. The children all had understanding looks on their faces, however Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle had completely dumbfounded expressions. The lesson then started and the students immediately paid attention as Phoenix remained at the back of the classroom and simply observed.

The lesson progressed as well as one could expect as the children were taught history and mathematics with near to no trouble. The only trouble was a pegasus filly named Scootaloo falling asleep in the middle of the lesson. Fortunately for her, Phoenix woke her up before Cheerilee noticed. As the break time bell tolled, the kids poured out of the classroom to attempt to be the first to the playground. There was one child, however that stayed. The child was a light beige furred filly with a red, curly mane and tail with no cutie mark and adorable, oversized glasses.

“Thorry mithter Fortethque, but you thaid that I could talk to you about problemth?” The filly said with a lisp. Phoenix recognised the filly as Twist.

“Of course, Twist. Take a seat and tell me what’s wrong.” Phoenix motioned to a seat by his desk that Twist then climbed onto.

“Well... I’m worried about my cutie mark.” Twist seemed ashamed of what she said.

“Well, Twist. Anxiety about cutie marks is very common for somepony your age.” Phoenix said soothingly.

“I’m worried about what it’ll be and if I’ll let my family down if it’th not what they do.” Twist said gloomily.

“Twist, getting your cutie mark is meant to be one of the happiest moments of your life. Your family have gone through the same thing you are going through. They will accept you for who you are and who you want to be.” Phoenix said with a small smile.

“But, what if my mark ithn’t what I want to do?” Twist said, still a little anxious.

“Getting your cutie mark doesn’t prevent you from doing whatever you want to. Do you know what my cutie mark means?” Phoenix stood and showed her his cutie mark. Twist was clearly thinking, but couldn’t think of anything.

“It means I’m very lucky, especially when I play card games. Yet, I’m doing the job of student councillor. The only one who should choose what you do... is you.” Phoenix finished. Twist was put into deep thought as the bell sounded again. Twist went back to her seat, but Phoenix could see that what he said had made her think. The lessons after the break were Equestrian literature and chemistry. Some time passed before Cheerilee and Phoenix walked outside with the children as their parents and carers began to arrive to pick them up.

Suddenly, Phoenix was hugged by a small filly. Twist let go after a while and looked up at him.

“Thank you, mithter Fortethque. I feel tho much better now.” Twist said with a large smile. Phoenix smiled back and tousled her mane.

“It’s okay, Twist. Remember, you can always come to me if you have any other problems. Okay?” Phoenix said. Twist nodded and ran to her mother. Phoenix looked back to see: Rarity, Applejack and Cheerilee looking at him proudly.

“Looks like I’m not going to regret making you the councillor.” Cheerilee beamed. Phoenix chuckled as his cheeks went very faintly pink from embarrassment. The girls giggled as Cheerilee walked back into the schoolhouse.

“Do you have to stay, Phoenix?” Rarity asked.

“No, I don’t have the same paperwork that Cheerilee does, so I can leave when the kids do.” Phoenix replied.

“That works out just fine, ‘cause Pinkie’s invited us to a party to honour an old friend of Rainbow Dash.” Applejack said.

“Gilda, right?” Phoenix asked.

“Yup. Big Mac’s already takin’ Apple Bloom home so we could all walk together.” Applejack said.

“What about Sweetie Belle?” Phoenix asked.

“Our mother and father already picked her up.” Rarity explained.

“Well, then, ladies. Shall we?” Phoenix said as he bowed slightly as he smirked. Applejack and Rarity just chuckled as they walked. When they reached Sugarcube Corner, the whole place was decorated and numerous ponies were already there.

“You two go on in. I’ll just be a minute.” Phoenix said.

“What’s up, sugarcube?” Applejack asked.

“Well, I’m not going to smoke inside. I’ll just be a minute.” Phoenix explained as he walked around the corner to light his cigarette and smoke it. When he finished it, he used some water magic to put it out, and then binned the remainder. He walked in to see Gilda talking to Pinkie Pie somewhat intently, but his attention was brought to Fluttershy who looked very uncomfortable as her gaze went between Gilda and the floor. Phoenix walked towards her before softly asking her a question.

“Fluttershy, are you alright?” Despite how softly he said it, the question still made Fluttershy jump.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Ph-Phoenix.” Fluttershy retreated behind her mane.

“It’s okay, Fluttershy. I’m sorry for startling you. But, back to my question: are you alright?” Phoenix asked softly again.

“U-um... Yes?” Fluttershy answered nervously.

“Please, Fluttershy, if you tell me what’s wrong, I’ll be able to help you.” Phoenix persisted.

“Y-you really don’t have to...” She tried to reason, but Phoenix persisted further, keeping his tone soft.

“I insist. I want to help you.” Phoenix said with sincere finality. Fluttershy shifted under his gaze before she started shaking and snuggled into Phoenix’s chest.

“I-it was G-Gilda. I was g-guiding a family o-of duckies to a new p-pond, b-but I bumped into G-Gilda and she j-just yelled and r-roared at me! It was so s-scary!” Fluttershy wailed quietly as Phoenix held her in his hooves as she cried. Phoenix even rocked her slightly until, their attentions were taken by a large crashing sound. They both walked over to where the commotion was, and saw Gilda covered in icing with a fake purple tail on her beak.

“Uh, Gilda? You put the tail on the wrong end.” Pinkie’s statement cause many other ponies to laugh. It however caused Gilda to roar like a wild beast.

“This is your idea of a good time?! I've never met a lamer bunch of dweebs in all my life! And Pinkie Pie, you! You are queen lame-o with your weak little party pranks! Did you really think you could make me lose my cool?!” Gilda began to rant but stopped when Phoenix was immediately between them.

“I suggest you back up, Gilda.” Phoenix said coldly. Gilda was taken aback for a second before roaring in Phoenix’s face, just like she did Fluttershy, who had hidden when she heard the roar. Phoenix simply closed his eyes and waited for her to stop. When she did, he wiped some saliva from his cheek and then sniffed the air.

“Vanilla and pepper. Odd combination, I must say.” Phoenix said, completely unfazed. Gilda was once again taken aback at his lack of reaction. She looked a little nervous as his cold, blue eyes were boring into her yellow ones. She finally pulled back her talon and swiped Phoenix across the left side of his face, causing everypony to either gasp or scream.

Apart from Phoenix.

Despite the small wound on his cheek and the blood beginning to seep out, Phoenix glared at Gilda as he began to remove his suit with his magic. As he folded it up, he placed it on a nearby table, but he didn’t lose eye contact with Gilda for a second. Everypony couldn't believe the lack of reaction from the stallion, but Gilda was borderline terrified. Her fear heightened as Phoenix slowly began to walk towards her.

“Hey. Hey! S-stay away from me! Dash! You’re not gonna let him hurt me are you?!” Gilda said, her voice laced with terror. Phoenix turned to Rainbow.

“After what she’s done to Fluttershy, she needs to learn her lesson.” Phoenix said to Rainbow.

“Okay, but hurting her won’t solve anything!” Rainbow argued.

“Who said anything about hurting her? I’m going to make her apologise for what she did to Fluttershy.” Phoenix said.

“What did I do to ‘Fluttershy’?!” Gilda roared angrily. Blood continued to slowly pour down Phoenix’s face as he looked back at Gilda as a terrified squeak came from behind him.

“You started on her for no reason when you bumped into her, and terrified her, again for no reason.” Phoenix explained. Gilda seemed to be hit by an invisible blow as she gulped and began to sweat.

“Gah! Y-you’ve got no proof I did that!” Gilda argued nervously as she attempted to back up towards the exit. Phoenix seemed to be getting angrier.

“HOLD IT!” Phoenix yelled louder than anypony had ever heard him before. It seemed to echo throughout the bakery as everypony and the griffin stopped moving.

“If anypony saw what she did, raise your hoof!” Phoenix shouted for everypony to hear. Slowly Fluttershy raised her hoof, followed by Pinkie quickly raising hers. A few other ponies raised their hooves while Gilda continued to sweat.

“I think you’ve been caught red-taloned, Gilda. Somewhat literally.” Phoenix motioned to her talon which still had a stain of Phoenix’s blood on it.

“Guh! No!” Gilda raised her talons to her head in shock.

“There’s no way out of it, Gilda. You’ve been bullying and hurting ponies for no reason. Look into Rainbow Dash’s eyes and confess!” Phoenix announced, pointing his hoof a Gilda causing to scream and fall to the ground. A moment later she got back up and looked at Rainbow in annoyance and anger.

“Are you gonna let ‘em speak to me like that?!” Gilda exclaimed loudly. Rainbow closed her eyes and lowered her head for a moment. She then raised it and glared at Gilda.

“If you’re gonna treat my new friends like crap, don’t be surprised when they do the same thing to you!” Rainbow yelled. Gilda’s eyes widened until she glared and lifted her talon again. It stopped dead in mid-swing when Phoenix jumped in front of Rainbow. After what happened the first time, Gilda knew that going through with the strike against Phoenix wouldn’t do her any good. She instead resorted to the only thing that immediately came to her mind.

She ran.

She fled from Sugarcube Corner without a word. As soon as she left, Phoenix groaned in pain and fell to his knees as he applied pressure to the wound on his face. Everypony was by him immediately in worry and panic. Phoenix simply laughed.

“She’s got a mean swing, hasn’t she?” Phoenix said.

“It’s going to be ok, Phoenix! I know a healing spell that’ll fix you right up!” Twilight exclaimed in a panic.

“Alright, I trust you, Twilight. You certainly have the looks and brains to be a nurse.” Phoenix said, causing many ponies to chuckle, but Twilight to blush as she lowered her horn to his cheek and started the spell which caused his skin to reconnect and his fur to grow back. Applejack helped him up as he took his suit from the table and placed it in his bag that he brought to school. 

Afterwards, Fluttershy and Pinkie insisted that Phoenix go home and rest, to which Twilight assured was the best course of action. Phoenix agreed due the aching in his face he was feeling that didn’t stop as he walked home. Twilight assured him that the aching would subside and to just wait it out instead of using some form of drug or painkiller as it could affect the healing process.

Sleep didn’t come easily to Phoenix, in his unconsciousness was put in the presence of a blurred, navy blue figure. Before he could identify the figure, sleep took him.

> Boast Busters
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You really didn’t have to come with me, Phoenix.” Fluttershy said caringly. Phoenix simply looked to her and smiled, causing her to blush slightly.

“It’s alright, Fluttershy. I had nothing to do today and I think spending the day with you is an excellent way to spend it.” Phoenix said with his smile still intact. Fluttershy’s blush quickly grew to incorporate her whole face, making her cover her face with her mane, not unlike how a turtle retreats into its shell. Fluttershy was shopping for her groceries when she bumped into Phoenix who asked if he could spend the day with her. She told him that she was just shopping and didn’t want to bore him.

She blushed when Phoenix replied that it her company he wanted.

“Are you feeling better after what happened yesterday, Fluttershy?” Phoenix asked with a caring expression. Fluttershy’s face emerged and looked at him.

“Yes, I am. Thank you. I was just... really startled.” Fluttershy explained. Phoenix nodded.

“I’m glad you’re okay.” Phoenix replied with a smile. Fluttershy smiled before showing a worried expression.

“Are you okay? Your face...” Fluttershy trailed off. She jumped when she felt Phoenix’s foreleg wrap around her neck, giving her a side hug.

“I’m fine. You don’t need to worry about lil’ ol’ me.” Phoenix said in a soothing voice. Fluttershy shifted her body and wrapped her hooves around Phoenix, causing him to reciprocate the action.

“You’ve realised I’m more huggable than I look, haven’t you?” Phoenix said amusedly. Fluttershy blushed slightly and nodded without letting go.

“I’m not interrupting anything, am I?” A voice emerged from behind them. Fluttershy and Phoenix looked to see the smirking face of Rarity. Fluttershy immediately removed herself from the embrace and stammered while trying to explain the situation, to both Rarity’s and Phoenix’s amusement.

“So what are you two doing here?” Rarity said as Fluttershy calmed down.

“I was doing my grocery shopping and met Phoenix who offered to accompany me.” Fluttershy said.

“Ah, what a gentlecolt.” Rarity said teasingly to Phoenix who blew a raspberry in her general direction.

“So, what do you plan on doing now, darling?” Rarity continued, tittering slightly.

“Well, I was going to head home, but I fed the animals this morning and my bags aren’t heavy, so I could do anything you guys want to do.” Fluttershy offered, but a loud series of bangs drew the trio’s attention. They walked to the town square to see a wooden stage unfold as fireworks shot into the air. A blue coated unicorn with a white mane and a wizard’s outfit appeared on the stage.

“Come on, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!” The unicorn announced.

“Sorry, I don’t think I caught her name.” Phoenix whispered sarcastically to Rarity. The crowd seemed to be intrigued.

“Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes!” Trixie yelled.

“My, my, my. What boasting!” Rarity scolded.

“Come on, nopony’s as magical as Twi- Twi- Twi- Oh! Ahem. Hey, Rarity, I, uh... Moustache!” Spike stuttered and stammered and zoomed out of sight.

“There’s nothing wrong with being talented, is there?” Twilight asked. Applejack replied to her, but Phoenix focused on Twilight and knew something was bothering her.

‘Judging from what she asked, she’s paranoid about something. Something to do with talent, perhaps.’ Phoenix theorised. He began to walk through the crowd towards Twilight.

“Hey, Twilight. Is something bothering you?” Phoenix asked her. Twilight looked at Phoenix in shock.

“Nope! No. Nothing’s wrong, Phoenix. What makes you ask that?” Twilight asked nervously. Phoenix gave her a look that let her know that he didn’t believe a word of what she was saying. Under his gaze, Twilight was becoming more and more convinced that he didn’t believe her. Before Phoenix could get her to crack, there was a large commotion behind him. Phoenix and Twilight watched as Trixie humiliated Rainbow, Applejack and Rarity respectively when they tried to make her stop bragging.

After that, nopony wanted to challenge Trixie, while Twilight, Pinkie, Fluttershy and Spike were either reverting Rarity’s mane to its former glory or untying the knots that constricted Applejack. Trixie then turned to Phoenix.

“What about you, lowly stallion? Is there anything you can do that Trixie can’t?” Trixie mocked with a smirk. Phoenix simply smiled.

“Biologically, I can think of a few things.” Phoenix stated calmly. Most of the audience began to laugh. Trixie simply looked offended.

“Do not joke in Trixie’s presence! You’re just hiding the fact that you are worthless!” Trixie yelled.

...Being called worthless seemed to touch one of Phoenix’s nerves. It was a word he was all too familiar with.

From him...

‘Time to show the bitch up.’ Phoenix thought angrily.

“Pinkie, you wouldn’t happen to have a piano on you, would you?” Phoenix asked Pinkie. Pinkie opened a trap door in the ground and pulled out a functioning grand piano.

“I have pianos stashed all over Ponyville. In case of piano emergency.” Pinkie stated randomly. Trixie was dumbfounded by the sudden appearance of the piano, but was also confused as to why Phoenix wanted it.

“I can play the piano. Can you?” Phoenix stated calmly, to which Trixie looked a little nervous.

“W-why would Trixie do that?” Trixie asked nervously.

“Well, I guess I’m better at something than the Decent and Kind-of Okay Trixie. That was easier than I thought it would be.” Phoenix said intentionally to aggravate her.

“Hold on! Let me try!” Trixie yelled as she used her magic to surround the keys and in an attempt to make music, she just made noise. Trixie seemed to sink as the crowd seemed to be less convinced of how ‘perfect’ she was.

“W-wait! How do we know you can actually play the piano? You must be worse than Trixie is! There is no doubt.” Trixie stated arrogantly.

“Yeah! You’ll never be better than Trixie, Mr Fortesque!” Snips said rudely.

“Yeah! Wait, why don’t we like him anymore?” Snails asked, genuinely confused.

“Oh, jus-! Forget about it!” Snips said angrily, causing Snails to remain silent. Phoenix stood in front of the piano and surrounded the keys in his own magic. Before anything else, he broke the silence by turning to Trixie.

“Tell me, Trixie. How does your own medicine taste?” Phoenix didn’t wait for a reply before he closed his eyes and began to play.

His magic pushed down the keys as the song started slowly in a melody. Eventually the tempo increased, but kept the original melody. In the end, the melody sounded large and bombastic, but still with the whimsical element. Using both his forehooves and his magic to play the finale as he held the final notes. He then turned to Trixie who looked at him in shock.

“Still think you’re better than us?” Phoenix asked coldly. Trixie simply turned her nose up and walked back into the stage without a word. The crowd cheered, including the girls and Spike.

“Phoenix! You’re the greatest piano player ever!” Spike yelled excitedly to most of the crowd’s agreement. Phoenix merely chuckled and shook his head.

“I think I’m decent at it, but I know many pianists that are more skilled than I.” Phoenix replied modestly. Rainbow started chuckling as the crowd started to disband and dissipate.

“You’re laughing at the word ‘pianist’, aren’t you Rainbow?” Rarity deadpanned. Her mane back to normal, however it lost its style and curls, leaving it straight. When Rarity said the word again, Rainbow let out a loud chuckle before covering her mouth with her hoof to prevent more laughs from escaping. Everypony rolled their eyes before returning to go about their business. Rarity offered to walk Fluttershy back to her cabin, Rainbow Dash went back to weather managing, Pinkie Pie bounced back to Sugarcube Corner and Applejack went back to her apple stall.

Twilight and Spike began to walk back to the library, but Phoenix asked if he could tag along; to which Twilight didn’t object. When they reached the library, Twilight offered Phoenix some tea, to which he politely declined. He did however break the silence before Twilight could change the subject again.

“Care to actually tell me what’s bothering you now?” Phoenix asked, but it seemed more like an implied instruction.

“Well…” Twilight began to sweat as the subject came up again. But, before she could come up with an excuse, Spike interjected.

“She’s worried that if she showed her talent to stand up to Trixie, everypony would go against her, like they did Trixie.” Spike explained unfazed as Twilight glared at him.

“That true?” Phoenix asked softly. Twilight sulked and lowered her head before she nodded.

“Twilight, sweetheart. You’ve just taken this the wrong way, that’s all.” Phoenix said in his soft tone.

“What do you mean?” Twilight questioned.

“We didn’t dislike Trixie because she was talented. We disliked her because she thought she was better than everypony else, because of those talents. Do you dislike me for the talent I stood her up with?” Phoenix asked, causing Twilight to look at him in anxious shock.

“No! No, of course… not…” Twilight trailed off as she seemed to realise what he meant.

“I think you’re starting to get it. I didn’t brag that I was the best pianist in Equestria and rub it in everypony’s faces, because I know I’m not the best and I know that everypony will be good at something. A lot of ponies will good at something that I could be atrocious at. Then, there are ponies like Trixie, who just think they can do anything or that what they do or what they are mean they’re more entitled than anypony else.” Phoenix explained.

“Right, like some of the Canterlot nobles.” Twilight said as an example.

“Precisely. Then, there are ponies like you.”

“W-what do you mean, ‘ponies like me’?” Twilight asked nervously.

“Ponies that have immense talent and work for what they have. You don’t brag that you’re better than anypony else, do you?” Phoenix asked, to which Twilight shook her head.

“Then you’re not like Trixie and we’re not going to hate you for having talent that you’ve worked hard for.” Phoenix finished. Twilight’s paranoia seemed to remain slightly as she seemed to still be afraid that he might be wrong.

“Just think about it, Twilight. If you still doubt what I say, just talk to our friends.” Phoenix said as he began to walk out of the library. As he started to walk back towards the town square, Twilight stood in her doorway and called Phoenix’s name, causing him to turn.

“…Thank you.” Twilight said after a moment of silence.

“What for?” Phoenix asked.

“…For just being you.” Twilight replied with a light giggle and small smile before returning into the library. Phoenix stood motionless for a moment before smiling and walking back towards the town square. He made it his mission to avoid Trixie and her stage as he continued on his way home. Fortunately, he picked a route that avoided where she was and he made it back to his house.

When he reached his home, the sun was beginning to set along the horizon. As Phoenix settled into his bed with a book, a large roar shook his room and seemingly the whole town. Phoenix sat still for a moment with wide eyes before rushing to his window and saw a giant bear-like creature that looked like it was made of stars, energy and constellations. Phoenix rushed through his house and out of his door as the creature was stomping through towards the town.

The creature was walking fairly slowly, but its size allowed it to cover ground very quickly. Phoenix ran after it, but his much smaller size allowed him to keep it in his sight, but could not keep up or overtake it. Eventually, he met up with the girls in the town as Trixie tried to subdue the creature.

And failed miserably.

Phoenix noticed Twilight trotting towards Snips and Snails, causing Phoenix to wonder why they were there in the first place.

“What’s going on here?” Twilight asked the colts.

“We brought an Ursa to town.” Snips said proudly.

“You WHAT?!” Twilight and Phoenix shouted.

“Don’t worry, the Great and Powerful Trixie can vanquish it.” Snails said with certainty.

“Then you’ll know whose better, Mr Fortesque.” Snips said with a hint of scorn.

“I can’t.” Trixie said pathetically.

“What?!” Snips and Snails screamed.

“Yes, it’s very clear cut.” Phoenix said sarcastically.

“I can’t, I never have. No one can vanquish an Ursa Major. I just made the whole story up to make me look better.” Trixie admitted in a defeated tone.

“Made it up?!” Snips and Snails screamed again. The Ursa roared, causing most of the townsfolk to scream and cower. Phoenix looked on in horror as the beast growled and roared. He began to back up until he was standing next to the girls; however it was only then that he noticed that Twilight and Spike were still way too close to it. He was about to call for them before a somewhat strong wind began to blow and break several nearby stalks of bulrush, causing the sound of the wind to be changed to a harmonious melody.

When the sound reached the Ursa, it gained a goofy smile and it began to sway. Moments later, the container from the water tower floated over to it with drops of milk leaking from it here and there. As it looked like it was going to fall on Trixie, Phoenix ran forward and pushed her away in order to save her. They both looked up to see the Ursa being safely held in a bright lavender magical aura. It then began to float away towards the Everfree Forest, soundly asleep.

Phoenix walked back to Twilight to see her looking towards her friends with a grimace.

“I’m sorry. Please, please don’t hate me.” Twilight said with fear.

“Hate you?” Phoenix, Applejack, Rainbow and Rarity asked with a hint of disbelief.

“Why, whatever do you mean, darling?” Rarity asked happily.

“Well, I know how much you all hated Trixie’s showing off with her magic tricks and I just thought…” Twilight trailed off.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. Magic’s got nothing to do with it. Trixie’s just a loudmouth.” Rainbow assured.

“Most unpleasant.” Rarity added.

“All hat and no cattle.” Applejack added.

“Told you so.” Phoenix said with a calming smile.

“So, you don’t mind my magic tricks?” Twilight asked.

“Your magic is a part of who you are, sugarcube, and we like who you are. We’re proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend.”  Applejack said with an honest smile.

“And after whuppin’ that Ursa’s hind quarters, we’re even prouder!” Rainbow added excitedly.

“You are?” Twilight said hopefully. Everypony nodded and muttered their agreement.

“Wow, Twilight, how did you know what to do with that Ursa Major?” Spike asked excitedly.

“That’s what I was doing when you came looking for me. I was so intrigued by Trixie’s bragging that I was compelled to do a little reading up on them.” Twilight explained.

“So, it is possible to vanquish an Ursa Major all by yourself?” Spike asked.

“That wasn’t an Ursa Major. It was a baby, an Ursa Minor.” Twilight clarified.

“That was just a baby?!” Trixie asked incredulously.

“And it wasn’t rampaging. It was just cranky because someone woke it up.” Twilight hinted to Snips and Snails.

“Well, if that was an Ursa Minor, what’s an Ursa Major like?” Spike asked. Twilight remained silent for a moment.

“You don’t wanna know.” Twilight said with a smile.

“Huh. You may have vanquished an Ursa Minor, but you will never have the amazing, show-stopping ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie!” Trixie announced as she created a small smoke-screen and began to run out of town.

Only to bump into Phoenix.

As she fell onto her back, Phoenix glared at her. Trixie scrambled to her hooves and continued to run. Phoenix watched her go before turning back to see Twilight talking to Snips and Snails. A moment later, Spike ran to their side and moustaches emerged on each of their faces. As they revelled at the newly formed facial hair, Phoenix stood behind Snips and Snails. They slowly turned around with a look of dread on their faces.

“We’re gonna have a nice, long chat on Monday, boys.” Phoenix said calmly.

> Look Before You Sleep
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You’re joking, right?” Phoenix asked incredulously.

“No, Ah ain’t! Fluttershy flew up to that dragon and told it off like it was her own kid!” Applejack said excitedly as she continued to rip down long branches from the nearby trees.

“I wish I could have seen that. I’m sorry that I couldn’t go with you to face the dragon.” Phoenix said.

“Now, don’t be that way, sugarcube. You had to make sure that the kids would be okay... Thank you for lookin’ after Apple Bloom.” Applejack said with a smile. Phoenix looked away from the tree he was working on and smiled back. Applejack then looked towards Rarity, only to discover what she was doing, causing her to march towards her. Phoenix remained and continued to tear the branches down. After a few minutes, Phoenix’s concentration was broken by an earth-shattering boom of thunder. Phoenix looked and saw that he was on his own and the storm that the pegasi had scheduled had started. Phoenix sighed as he turned, only to see Applejack sheltering herself from the rain and Rarity complaining about it.

Phoenix walked over to them as the rain and wind was starting to pick up speed.

“Girls! We need to find some shelter!” Phoenix spoke over the winds.

“I wholeheartedly agree, Phoenix!” Rarity replied.  Applejack emerged from under the table just as another voice drifted through the air.

“Applejack! Rarity! Phoenix!” Twilight yelled from the library.

“Twilight?” The three ponies in question said.

“Come inside, quickly!” Twilight instructed. The three galloped towards the library.

“Whoa, nelly. Is inside a tree really the best place to be in a lightning storm?” Applejack asked, to which Phoenix nodded in agreement of the question.

“It is if you have a magical lightning rod protecting your home like I do. Come on in!” Twilight replied, much to Applejack and Phoenix’s relief.

“Hah! We are most grateful for your invitation.” Rarity said gratefully.

“Thank you so much, Twilight.” Phoenix said in a similar manner.

“Thank ya kindly for your hospitality.” Applejack said in the same fashion as well, only to be stopped by Rarity.

“Uh, do be a polite house guest and go wash up, won’t you?” Rarity asked snootily. Applejack was about to reply, but Phoenix beat her to it.

“How do you expect her to do that?” Phoenix asked.

“I saw a hose outside. That should suffice.” Rarity explained.

“How am Ah gonna use that with mah hooves an’ mah mouth?” Applejack asked.

“You’re a big mare, Applejack, I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” Rarity rudely replied. Applejack looked ready to explode, while Twilight was further in the library; out of earshot. Phoenix put his hoof on Applejack’s shoulder.

“I’ll give you a hoof. Come on.” Phoenix walked outside with her. He insisted that she remain still while he aimed the hose with his magic. He aimed it away from her at first in order to get the power to what he wanted it to be. At the suitable setting, he aimed it at Applejack’s hooves. The mud was quickly removed, but a thought then came to Phoenix.

As did a devilish smirk.

Phoenix then aimed the hose higher and splashed Applejack with water. Her face became one of shock as she watched Phoenix laugh heartily. Her look of shock became a smirk as she leapt for the hose and forcefully made it face Phoenix, effectively drenching him. He looked at her levelly until the smirk came back to his face as he began to use his magic gather the rain into large orbs of water and made them circle around him. Applejack still remained confident as she grabbed the hose with her mouth.

A few minutes of splashing, laughing and quite a bit of cursing later, Phoenix and Applejack were completely drenched and still giggling. They walked into the library as Phoenix use a minor fire spell to dry them off, but not burn them. The sight that befell them was Rarity and Twilight with some kind of muddy substance all over their faces.

“What in tarnation... Now, wait just a goll-darn minute! Ya make me wash the mud off mah hooves, but it’s okay for y’all to have mud all over your faces? What’s up with that?” Applejack directed her last question at Phoenix who simply shrugged.

“Mares. Stallions aren’t designed to understand them.” Phoenix replied.

“Silly! This is called a mud mask. It’s to refresh and rejuvenate your complexion.” Rarity explained.

“We’re giving each other makeovers! Eee-hee!! We have to do it, it says so in the book.” Twilight said as she displayed the book for Phoenix and Applejack to read.

“’Slumber 101: Everything You...’ Oh hey, would you look at the time. Ah gotta skidaddle on home quick. Ah’m powerful late for, uh, for somethin’. Uh, g’night.” Applejack nervously explained as she went for the door, but a loud roar of thunder and a large lightning strike made her return to her original spot.

“Or maybe Ah’ll sit here for a spell.” Applejack said fearfully.

“Hurray slumber party!” Twilight announced.

“Hey, Twilight, what’s next on the list? I’d like to know what to expect.” Phoenix asked.

“Yeah, Ah don’t really wanna do what y’all are doin’ right now.” Applejack stated.

“Well, after makeovers is ghost stories, but we can’t do those without doing makeovers first. We have to do everything by the book to make my first slumber party officially fun!” Twilight announced excitedly. Phoenix nodded in agreement, but turned to Twilight.

“Twilight, I’m all for this and I promise to do my best to help make tonight as fun as I can, but guys aren’t really into makeovers. It will destroy what little ego I have left.” Phoenix explained casually.

“Oh. Okay, Phoenix. Oh! I just thought of something! When we’re done with the makeovers, you can judge how we look! That way, we’ll get a stallion’s point of view!” Twilight explained, her enthusiasm not waning once.

“Yeah, I can do that.” Phoenix agreed and watched as the makeovers went underway on Twilight, Rarity and Applejack, despite her earlier protests. When they were complete, they removed the mud masks and rollers from the faces and manes respectively as Twilight looked at Phoenix with a giddy smile.

“Well, Phoenix? How do we look?” Twilight asked in a way that reminded Phoenix of Pinkie slightly.

“Well, you three don’t look any different than you usually do. So, basically, you all look gorgeous.” Phoenix said casually, causing all three of them to blush profusely. To quickly change the subject, Twilight opened the book again.

“Makeovers, check. Now it’s time for ghost stories. Who wants to go first?” Twilight asked.

“Me! Ah’d like to tell y’all the terrifyin’ tale of the prissy ghost who drove everypony crazy with her unnecessary neatness. Oo-oo! Ah’m sure y’all are familiar with that one?” Applejack said.

“Never heard of it, but I have a much better one. It’s the horrifying story of the messy, inconsiderate ghost who irritated every pony within a hundred miles! Oo-oo!” Rarity retorted. They looked ready to argue again, but a voice interrupted them.

“Well, those sucked hayballs. I think I’ve got a better one.” Phoenix said and then proceeded to tell the story. A few minutes in and the three girls were both sweating and shaking. The scariness of the story and Phoenix’s deep, theatrical voice combined to create the chills down the girls’ spines.

“He entered his brother’s room to see him sleeping in his bed, completely unaware that his loving brother had just murdered their parents. Liu only began to wake up as his brother climbed on top of him and began to raise the blood-covered knife with his magic, ready to stab him. He then felt the tip of a hoof on his lips and a soft voice reach his ears.” Phoenix began to lean forward and signalled the girls to do the same. When they did so, he prepared his magic for the finale.

“The voice said: ‘Shh... Go to sleep...’.” Phoenix whispered and used his magic like a hoof to trace along the girls’ spines, causing them to turn around and scream at the top of their lungs.

And Phoenix to chuckle at their reactions.

They eventually died down when they saw nopony there and Phoenix’s chuckling caused them to look back at him and glare before starting to chuckle themselves, albeit nervously.

“I-I think t-that’s enough from ghost stories. Wh-who wants s’mores?” Twilight said as she checked it off of the list. As the girls stopped shaking and looking over their shoulders every few minutes, Rarity began to educate everypony on how to properly make a s’more, to which Applejack’s normal simple ways ignored and drove her to eat a marshmallow as it was.

“S’mores, check. Now, the next item of fun we have to do is: Truth or Dare.” Twilight announced.

“I dare Applejack to do something carefully and neatly for a change.” Rarity said.

“Oh, yeah? Well, Ah dare Rarity to lighten up and stop obsessin’ over every last little detail for a change.” Applejack replied.

“I think the truth of the matter is that somepony could stand to pay a little more attention to details.” Rarity said, a little more agitated.

“And Ah think to truth is somepony oughta quit with her fussin’ so the rest of us can get things done.” Applejack replied, equally agitated. Suddenly, a black aura surrounded both Rarity’s and Applejack’s ears, causing them to repeat the word ‘ow’ and remain practically motionless.

“Ladies, ladies. You’re both pretty, can we stop this now? Twilight, why don’t you tell us the rules and you start us off in the game?” Phoenix said before releasing Applejack and Rarity.

“Okay. ‘You have to give an honest answer to any question or do whatever anypony dares you to do.' Okay... Phoenix, truth or dare?” Twilight asked.

“Truth.”

“...Who was your first kiss?” Twilight asked, clearly trying to think of a good personal question.

“Well, I’ve never had one.” Phoenix replied, causing the mares in the room to look at him in disbelief.

“Really? I would have thought you would have. Nevermind. Your turn.” Twilight said and pointed to Phoenix.

“Okay, Twilight. Truth or dare?” Phoenix asked.

“Truth, please.” Twilight replied.

“When we first met, you were very stutter-y and very red. Could you explain?” Phoenix asked with a smirk as Twilight’s cheeks went red.

“Well... Okay. I was always focused on my studies and nearly never left my room when I was growing up. So, I never talked to other mares, let alone stallions. So, when I saw you... I... I just wasn’t used to seeing stallions that handsome! It took me by surprise!” Twilight explained, her face completely red.

“Aww. I feel all fuzzy now. But, that does explain why you didn’t act the same way the second time you saw me.” Phoenix said with a kind smile.

“Yeah. Whose turn is it next?” Twilight asked, her blush beginning to recede.

“Ah’ll go.” Applejack said. Her gaze began alternating between Rarity and Phoenix, clearly wanting to do two different ideas but could only choose one.

“Phoenix, truth or dare?” Applejack asked after a moment.

“...Truth again.” Phoenix said.

“Tell us one of your secrets.” Applejack asked with a grin. Phoenix seemed to be unfazed as he thought.

“Well... I own a pair of knee-high black socks that I wear when I want to feel particularly comfortable when I sleep.” Phoenix explained without his expression changing. The girls looked at him in shock.

“W-what?! Why would you wear such a... kinky thing like that?!” Rarity asked in shock.

“I like the way it feels on my body. I do it when I have trouble sleeping and it gets me back into the dream realm as it were.” Phoenix explained calmly.

“But, they’re designed for... other things, darling. Simply owning them is...” Rarity shuddered.

“Well, how do you know what they’re designed for, Rarity?” Phoenix asked with a smirk, causing Rarity to blush.

“I... may have made a pair or two for customers... But, never for myself before you insinuate anything!” Rarity said defensively.

“I didn’t say anything.” Phoenix said with his unwavering smirk. Twilight leaned closer to Phoenix.

“Do you really do that? And for those reasons?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. Why?” Phoenix asked.

“I do too! For those reasons!” Twilight said excitedly, glad that she’d found somepony to relate to in that aspect.

“No way! What kind of socks do you have?” Phoenix asked. Twilight’s blush emerged on her face again.

“They’re... pink and purple striped socks that cover the whole of my legs.” Twilight said timidly. Phoenix didn’t answer for a few seconds as he looked at her legs before looking back at her face.

“Hot.” Phoenix said simply. Twilight blushed and giggled. They both looked at Applejack and Rarity who were back to arguing causing Twilight to sigh.

“Maybe we can skip the pillow fight and just call it a night?” Phoenix offered to which Twilight agreed.

“I have spare pyjamas for everypony to use.” Twilight said as she began to walk upstairs.

“Sometimes, I wish our natural magic was subconscious, so we could use it in our sleep.” Phoenix said with an annoyed sigh as he followed her.

“I know what you mean. That way, we could hide our genitalia all of the time except for when we need them, right?” Twilight said.

“Exactly. Say, you know something about practically everything, do you think it’s possible?” Phoenix asked.

“Well, I don’t think I’m that smart, but... no, I don’t think it’s possible.” Twilight blushed slightly as she retrieved three pairs of lavender coloured bottoms and one pair of lavender coloured shorts.

“Are you sure you’re okay with me wearing your pyjamas, Twilight?” Phoenix asked with concern.

“Well, I’d rather you wear them for one night and I wash them than you not wearing them and the risk that any of us see more than we should.” Twilight said.

“...Fair enough. Thank you.” Phoenix said gratefully as he took a pair of bottoms and donned them as Twilight donned another pair, leaving one pair of bottoms and one pair of shorts left.

“Who do you think will be stuck with the shorts? I don’t wear them, myself.” Twilight asked.

“I can’t say. I’m just going to enjoy the view.” Phoenix replied. Twilight playfully smacked his foreleg with her own as they both broke into laughter. They saw that Applejack and Rarity had engaged in a pillow fight during their absence, but it was more like a pillow war. Pillows were flying like bullets until Phoenix repeated his action of pinching their ears with his magic. As they both got back into the habit of repeating the word ’ow’, Phoenix dragged them both towards him.

“Enough, you two. You are going to march in there, put your pyjamas on and go to bed.” Phoenix instructed. Applejack and Rarity responded with a glare.

“I’m going to count to three. One... Two...” With each count, Phoenix tightened his grip on their ears, causing them to flinch more in pain.

“Ah give! Ah give!” Applejack yelled.

“As do I! Please, let go!” Rarity agreed.

“There we go. Now, do as I instructed, please.” Phoenix said softly as released them. Applejack and Rarity looked at the two pairs of pyjamas that Twilight brought in. Applejack reached for the bottoms, but Rarity gripped them with her magic and slipped them on quickly, leave Applejack with the shorts. She sighed and put them on.

“So, what are the sleeping arrangements, Twilight?” Rarity asked.

“Well, I have an extra bed in my room that could hold a couple of ponies. Two of you will have to share and one of you will sleep on the couch.” Twilight explained. Immediately, both Applejack and Rarity linked hooves with Phoenix.

“Ah’ll share with Phoenix.” Applejack said quickly.

“No, I insist that I share with Phoenix.” Rarity quickly replied, causing the two mares to glare at each other. Phoenix, however pulled his forelegs out of the mares’ grips.

“I will take the sofa. Thank you for doing this, Twilight.” Phoenix said gratefully.

“You’re welcome, Phoenix. I’ll get you a pillow and blanket.” Twilight said pleasantly as Applejack and Rarity continued to glare at each other. Twilight opened her wardrobe a removed a spare quilt and pillow from it, but her eyes were drawn to an item of clothing that was tucked at the back of the wardrobe.

Her socks.

She questioned whether she should wear them or not, but eventually used her magic to slide them gracefully up her legs. They clung tightly to her legs, yet comfortably. She walked back to the living room with the quilt and pillow in her magic. Everypony in the room immediately noticed the socks. Applejack’s and Rarity’s eyes widened as they both blushed. Phoenix’s cheeks grew slightly pink, yet he just smirked as she walked over.

“Feels relieving, doesn’t it?” Phoenix said with his smirk to which Twilight nodded.

“Twilight! Why are you wearing those... things?!” Rarity screamed. Twilight sighed.

“I thought we were over this.” Twilight said with annoyance.

“What Ah wanna know is why you like ‘em in the first place.” Applejack said a little more calmly.

“I can help her answer that.” Phoenix said.

In every heart there lies a place, all across the pony race.

Beneath a veil of fear and pride, guilty pleasures lie inside.

Things that make our heart take wing, sometimes they're embarrassing.

Against their sway we have no powers,

And these wool socks are one of ours.

Guilty pleasures!
Everypony has a few!
Guilty pleasures!
You and me and even you!
Guilty pleasures!
Contradict your sense of taste!
Guilty pleasures!
They can only be embraced!

The firecolt who loves ballet.

The model who loves anime.

We all have a stupid song that always makes us sing along!

So reconcile inside your mind, our love for these wool socks are blind.

Yes, they're dumb
Yes, they're gay
But we love them anyway!

Guilty pleasures!
Everypony has a few!
Guilty pleasures!
You and me and even you!

Guilty pleasures!
Surely even you have some!
Guilty pleasures!
Love them even though they're dumb!

Guilty pleasures!
They're the best at any time!
Guilty pleasures!
You have yours and I have mine!
Guilty pleasures!
These wool socks are just the shit,
Guilty pleasures!
And we won't stop loving it!

Silence fell as the music and singing stopped, disturbed only by the heavy breathing of Twilight and Phoenix.

“Whew! After that, I really need to get some rest.” Twilight said as she began to walk up to her room.

“I’m with you on that one.” Phoenix replied as he prepared the sofa to act as his bed. Rarity and Applejack finally snapped out of their daze to see that Phoenix and Twilight had gone to bed, so they followed suit. Phoenix managed to drift into a steady sleep as the minutes passed. Until, he heard yelling coming from the upstairs bedroom. He awoke and looked up towards the room and listened. The yelling was muffled by the distance of the rooms and by the storm. Suddenly, a giant tree filled Phoenix’s vision and landed on top of him. The trunk managed to miss Phoenix; therefore he wasn’t crushed, but a large branch coming from the side of the trunk was heavy enough to pin him down by his neck. A few minutes of struggling later, the tree began to glow with a light sapphire magical hue and the entire tree changed into little ornaments made of the bark and foliage.

Phoenix walked up to Twilight’s room to see it in complete disarray, and the girls in a group hug. Twilight explained that the lightning rod failed and the nearest highest point (namely, the tree) was struck. Rarity then explained that the wind caused the tree to fall into the window. Phoenix knew she was lying, but the grateful look that Applejack gave her told Phoenix that he shouldn’t pry. After the mess was cleared up, Phoenix went back to sleep as the girls went back to the sleepover. Phoenix could immediately tell that Rarity and Applejack were much more at ease with each other when he saw them after the tree incident.

Things can change so much... someday in the rain.
> Bridle Gossip
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunlight flooded Phoenix’s room as he began to stir and wake. He looked to the sun with mild annoyance before turning to his bedside table to see his alarm clock with the time: 8:56 plastered on its face. He groggily emerged from his bed and looked out of his window to see that the entire town was deserted. It took him a moment to realise what was going on.

Zecora had come to town.

Phoenix quickly showered and got dressed before leaving his house and into the empty street. He looked around before seeing a robed figure walking towards the Everfree Forest. He galloped after the figure as it began to disappear into the darkness of the forest. Eventually, he spotted the figure in between the trees and finally caught it.

“Zecora.” Phoenix said to the figure. The figure turned around to reveal the face of a female zebra.

“Ah, Phoenix, you startled me. But, your face is one I’m glad to see.” Zecora said in a somewhat deep voice and a lyrical tone. She continued to walk as Phoenix walked with her.

“Thank you, Zecora. It’s good to see you too.” Phoenix replied kindly.

“I really should have known you were near. But, how did you know I was here?” Zecora asked.

“I saw the town was deserted and I looked for you. Still no luck winning over the townsponies?” Phoenix asked sympathetically.

“I’m afraid not, my friend. When I arrive, all activity seems to end.” Zecora replied sadly.

“I tried to convince them that you’re kind-hearted, but they were convinced that you corrupted me. I had to let them perform an exorcism on me.” Phoenix said sadly.

“I’m sure you did the best you could. It’s more than most ponies there would.” Zecora replied with a bit of spite.

“Please, don’t give up on them, Zecora. Everypony fears what they don’t understand.” Phoenix implored. Zecora sighed.

“I have given chance after chance for the town. But, their continued reactions cause me to frown.” Zecora said depressingly. Her eyes then shot open as she looked to Phoenix’s hooves.

Which were hoof-deep in numerous blue plants.

“My stress didn’t need this mighty stoke! You’ve stepped into Poison Joke!” Zecora exclaimed.

“Poison?!” Phoenix exclaimed.

“It’s not fatal, so don’t feel sorrow. But, I can’t cure you until tomorrow.” Zecora calmly explained.

“What are the symptoms?” Phoenix asked, more at ease. Zecora gave him a discomforted look as she responded.

“It’s always different, but none are cruel. But, they may make you seem the fool.” Zecora said uneasily.

“...But, you can cure me by tomorrow?” Phoenix asked.

“It’s not hard to brew, make no mistake about that. But, there are a few ingredients that I seem to lack.” Zecora said.

“Well, the marketplace opens at daybreak. I can pick some stuff up on the way to your hut.” Phoenix offered.

“So, they won’t flee is what that means. However, with the effects, you may not want to be seen.” Zecora replied. Phoenix thought for a moment.

“Have you got a spare cloak that I could borrow?” Phoenix asked. Zecora removed the one she was wearing and hoofed it over to him.

“I have others at home. This one however, I’ll give you to own.” Zecora said with a smile.

“Zecora, you needn’t do that. Are you sure?” Phoenix asked reminding her of his intention to borrow rather than keep. Zecora merely nodded and wrapped her forelegs around his neck. Phoenix moved the folded cloak from his hooves to his magic and hugged her back. A moment after they let go of each other, Apple Bloom emerged from the bushes.

“Apple Bloom! What are you doing here?!” Phoenix asked in shock.

“Ah was followin’ Zecora when everypony else was talkin’ about how bad she was. Ah jus’ wanted to see for mahself.” Apple Bloom explained in a confessing tone.

“But, this is the Everfree, Bloom! It’s dangerous to go alone!” Phoenix said as he looked around, but was shocked to see that Zecora was nowhere in sight.

“She must have slipped away while you were explaining.” Phoenix said to Apple Bloom.

“Yeah... What’s that in your pocket, Phoenix?” Apple Bloom pointed to Phoenix’s jacket. He pulled it out with his magic to discover it was a folded up piece of parchment. He unfolded it to see a list of different herbs.

‘These must be the things she wants me to pick up.’ Phoenix thought. He then turned to Apple Bloom.

“It’s nothing, Bloom. Let’s just go back. Watch out for those blue flowers.” He said as they began to walk back the way they came. As they reached the edge of the forest, Phoenix spotted the girls on the horizon running in their direction. Phoenix knew they’d question why he was there and the cloak he was carrying.

“Bloom, can you promise me that you won’t tell anypony that I was speaking with Zecora just now?” Phoenix asked.

“Why?” She replied.

“Just promise me that if anypony asks, you just say that you haven’t seen me. Alright?”

“Okay.” Apple Bloom replied with a confused expression. Phoenix then ran off in a different direction. Apple Bloom was about to follow him, but was caught by Applejack. Phoenix hid behind a nearby house to listen and see if Apple Bloom would keep her promise. She told the girls that she saw Zecora go into the Everfree Forest and decided to go no further. As they left, Phoenix did the same. He went back to his house and dropped off the cloak before going back to town to meet the girls.

After Apple Bloom received a little scolding from the girls while Twilight remained sceptical. Phoenix stopped Apple Bloom when nopony was around and thanked her for keeping her promise. She merely smiled and hugged the stallion, instantly realising what everypony meant by Phoenix being huggable. As the day went by, there was a feeling of dread and fear within Phoenix as to what symptom would befall him, due to the Poison Joke. He decided to push those thoughts aside as he simply enjoyed the day.

As Phoenix watched the sun begin to set on the horizon from his bedroom window, all of his anxieties returned in full-force. He had to run the same thought through his mind to keep himself calm. 

The memory of Zecora telling him that it wasn’t fatal.

Phoenix knew that Zecora wouldn’t lie about something so important to his face. That was the only conclusion that he cared about. As the moon rose and the stars began to shine, Phoenix set his alarm for six in the morning and tried to get some sleep.

But, it didn’t come to him easily. His whole body felt...

...Strange...

Phoenix awoke to the sound of the alarm clock. Rising from the bed and moving to the mirror, she saw something terrifying. A grey coated, black maned, blue eyed... mare. Phoenix realised that she was no longer a stallion. One check to a specific place confirmed that. So, she did what anypony would do in that situation. She screamed.

True, it wasn’t loud enough for anyone to hear, but for Phoenix it was the loudest she had ever yelled. After she calmed down, she tested her voice as she combed her mane into something more presentable. Her voice was definitely a higher pitch than it used to be, but remained relatively deep, not unlike Zecora’s. Her mane and tail were at least twice as long as she was used to, meaning it took her twice as long to finish combing it.

‘I’ll never complain about how long it takes for a mare to get ready ever again.’ Phoenix thought to herself.

She then threw a pair of her saddlebags on her back and then Zecora’s cloak which covered most of her body. Phoenix emerged from her house and head towards the marketplace, where numerous ponies were just beginning to set up their shops. Phoenix looked over her list before heading to the appropriate shop. Once there, she paid for the herbs she picked out and moved to the next one. She eventually reached the final stand which sold various plants. She picked out a Dragonbell plant and dropped the correct amount of bits onto the counter. The stallion in charge of the stall, however looked at Phoenix with half-lidded eyes.

“Y’know, I could probably give you a big discount on that... if you do something for me first.” The owner said with a flirtatious look and a sultry tone. Phoenix merely frowned as she shook her head. The owner’s horn began to glow as he created a magical construct to slap Phoenix on the flank.

“C’mon.” The owner persisted. Phoenix reached into her bag and pulled out her revolver and aimed it right at his head.

“The bits or the bullet. Take your pick, arsehole.” Phoenix growled. Despite the gender switch, Phoenix didn’t lose a hint of her intimidation skills. The stallion nodded fearfully and quickly swiped the bits as Phoenix put her gun and the plant in her bag. She then walked away towards the Everfree. Suddenly, she heard a loud gasping noise coming from the area that her house was in. She turned to see the girls all seemingly looking for her, and were shocked to see her house completely empty. Phoenix threw her hood up and trotted towards the Everfree.

Reviewing the plan she came up with, she realised it was a bad one. As she seemed to resemble a certain zebra, was suspiciously running towards the forest and was wearing the cloak Zecora was wearing the day prior, the girls spotted her and galloped after her.

“Oh, fuck.” Phoenix cursed to herself as she increased her pace into a gallop. She attempted to lose the girls in the trees as they continued to run. After a while of the girls being on her tail, Phoenix decided to slip out of sight and hide. The girls continued to look for Phoenix as she quietly continued to move towards Zecora’s hut. Eventually, she reached the Poison Joke again. Annoyed about what it did to her, she picked them all, placed them in a pile and turned them into ash in a small fire.

Elsewhere, the girls actually reached Zecora’s hut first to see the shaman herself stood by a bubbling cauldron. They strained their ears to hear what she was saying.

“Hmm... It has been a while since the hour of six. Where is that man, Phoenix?” Zecora wondered aloud, however the girls took it as a confession of Zecora’s witchcraft and ponynapping. They were about to confront her, but Fluttershy pointed out a pony in a cloak coming towards the hut. The girls leapt into several bushes and shrubberies.  The cloaked pony knocked lightly on the door, to which Zecora opened. The pony seemed to lift their hood slightly and was immediately let inside. The girls immediately returned to the window.

Inside the hut, Phoenix used her magic to remove her bags without removing the cloak. Zecora looked inside the bags and nodded in satisfaction.

“It pains me to see you this way, my friend. I trust you had no trouble in the end?” Zecora said with a hint of worry.

“Well, I nearly had to use my gun and I had to outrun six mares, so I’d rather we get this over with as soon as we can please, Zecora.” Phoenix replied bluntly, but politely.

“Well, the brew here is near its completion. All it needs now are those items and some secretion.” Zecora explained.

“What kind of secretion?” Phoenix asked.

“Bodily secretion.” Zecora replied.

“I have a vial of blood, actually.” Phoenix reached into her bag and picked out said vial.

“Why do you even have that?” Zecora asked, too confused to rhyme.

“You never know when you’ll need one.” Phoenix replied.

“I know these questions seem quite old-hat, but when would you ever need that?”

“Now. We need it now. Who’s crazy now?” Phoenix said as she laughed. The door suddenly burst violently open to reveal Twilight and the girls with a look of fury on all of their faces. Zecora and Phoenix watched in shock as the girls filed in and tensed up in preparation to strike, like a snake stalking a mouse.

“We're onto you, Zecora! And your lackey! Where’s Phoenix?!” Twilight demanded. Rainbow then made a dash for Zecora before Phoenix pushed her out of the way and taking the full force of the strike. Unfortunately knocking her into the side of the cauldron, knocking it over and spilling its contents all over the floor of the hut.

“No! The special brew! It was the stuff meant for you!” Zecora exclaimed a she emphasised towards Phoenix, who scrambled out of Rainbow’s reach. Phoenix watched the bubbling green liquid as Rainbow grabbed her again. Twilight then held both of them aloft with her magic while they had defeated looks on their faces.

“I won’t ask again! Where. Is. Phoenix?” Twilight growled. Phoenix’s eyes never left the ground as Zecora looked over to her.

“The poison in your veins may now never end. I... I’m so sorry... Phoenix, my friend.” Zecora said as she began to tear up a little. The girls gasped before Twilight removed the cloak from Phoenix, revealing her female form. Twilight dropped them both onto their hooves, but Phoenix merely turned to the spilled brew and sat on her haunches. Silence fell.

“...What did you mean by ‘may never end’?” Applejack surprisingly broke the silence as she politely addressed Zecora.

“Poison Joke has a deeply hidden wrath... It’s permanent effects are its last laugh.”  Zecora sadly replied.

“How long before it becomes permanent?” Pinkie worriedly asked.

“There is a very short delay to the last laugh. The effects are only temporary for a day and a half.” Zecora replied.

“If she... he was infected yesterday, then surely we should be able make another cure.” Twilight said optimistically. Zecora merely shook her head.

“The ingredients I need can’t be easily found. I used up my stocks the first time around. Buying them at the market is a route most plausible. But, the shops are always closed, making it impossible.” Zecora replied causing the girls to look slightly guilty. The looks of guilt, however were replaced with ones of determination.

“We’ll be able to convince them that you’re alright! Twilight’s the protégé of the princess herself!” Rarity announced. To this, Phoenix turned.

“So, they’ll believe you first time, but when I try, they had to exorcise me? Charming.” Phoenix said in her usual sarcastic way. She stood up and walked up to the girls, then turned and looked to Zecora.

“Come on, Zecora. You’ve never let me down in the past. Please, don’t do it now.” Phoenix implored. Zecora sighed before smiling slightly as she nodded and lead them out of the hut. After a minute or so of walking, Fluttershy addressed the elephant in the forest.

“Phoenix? Do you think it feels strange to be a mare?” Fluttershy asked innocently.

“Well... I don’t feel as heavy, but I do feel more... curvy.” Phoenix replied.

“Well, Phoenix, you’re hot as mares go.” Rainbow said confidently.

“What, I wasn’t as a stallion?” Phoenix asked.

“Eh.” Rainbow replied. Nopony chose to comment further. Minutes later, they reached Ponyville. It took a little while to convince Aloe and Lotus that they had an emergency on their hooves. The girls spread themselves across the market to purchase the ingredients that Zecora required. Zecora remained in the spa in order to avoid causing another panic. Zecora began brewing the cure in a large hot tub with the ingredients that Phoenix had bought for her earlier in the day. Aloe and Lotus seemed sceptical of Zecora’s actions, but they also seemed surprised of how different she was from what they had heard about her.

Within minutes, the girls returned with the herbs and vegetation required. The unicorns helped Zecora ground up the rest of the ingredients and poured them in. Ponies watched in silence as the powders fizzled for a moment before dissolving. Finally, Zecora poured in the vial of Phoenix's blood and watched it seemingly disappear in the concoction. Silence fell.

“What now?” Twilight asked. Not one second after the last syllable passed Twilight’s lips, Zecora shoved Phoenix into the water. A large number of bubbles reached the surface at an alarming rate. Seconds later, Phoenix emerged from the water, trying to catch his breath. He continued to splutter as he reached for the side with his hooves. He checked over himself to discover that the change had been completely reversed before sighing with relief and climbing out of the tub. He immediately shot Zecora an unamused look.

“A little warning next time, Zecora?” Phoenix questioned, clearly annoyed. She merely chuckled before the spa ponies emerged to feel the water for themselves. They shared an excited smile before Lotus Blossom began to speak to Zecora.

“Miss Zecora, I would love to get the recipe for this bath. It's simply luxurious!” Lotus said politely, but with enthusiasm. Zecora responded with a smile.

“There you go, Zecora. These two are loved around Ponyville. If they say you’re alright with us confirming it, you’re guaranteed to be accepted.” Phoenix said. Zecora smiled as the spa sisters blushed at the praise. The girls then began to enjoy a spa session as Phoenix decide all he wanted to do was sleep. He departed and returned to his home and to his bed. Once again, he saw a blurred, navy blue figure as he was losing consciousness. A moment later, the figure moved and Phoenix was in the dream realm.
> Winter Wrap Up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix exhaled in exhaustion as he finally completed the repairs on the final wrecked house in Ponyville. Mayor Mare walked up to him, the snow crunching under her hooves.

“Is it finally done?” Mayor Mare asked excitedly, but politely. Phoenix turned to smile at her.

“Yeah, it’s all done. I still can’t believe that I left town for one day and when I came back there was damage across the entire town.” Phoenix said.

“I understand. Thank you so much for your help though, Mr Fortesque. To stay on the job for three months to make sure all the damages were repaired is a very admirable feat.” The Mayor replied. Phoenix chuckled.

“Well, with other ponies helping me, you and my friends inspiring me and Fluttershy bringing lemonade whenever she could, I persevered.” Phoenix said, causing the Mayor to chuckle.

“Does she still feel guilty?” The Mayor asked.

“Not as much as she did. It’s Winter Wrap Up day today, is it not?” Phoenix asked.

“Indeed it is. I just hope we’ll get it done on time this year.” The Mayor said gloomily.

“Oh, don’t be that way, Mayor. Do you need a hug?” Phoenix comforted. The Mayor chuckled as she shook her head.

“That won’t be necessary, thank you. Did you go to town hall to get your vest yet?” The Mayor asked.

“Yes, I did. I’m on the plant team, although I don’t think green is my colour.” Phoenix said.

“Indeed. I think blue would suit you the most, however you lack what is required for the weather team.” The Mayor replied.

“Yeah, imagine if I just grew wings. That would freak a lot of ponies out.” Phoenix said, causing them both to share a chuckle. More ponies were emerging from their homes as they began to don their vests and gather outside of town hall. Phoenix stood at the front of the crowd as he slipped on his green vest. Applejack and Big Mac arrived and noticed Phoenix, so Applejack decided to stand next to him, to which Big Mac had no objections and followed. Mayor Mare walked up on stage and spoke to the crowd.

“Thank you, everypony, for being here bright and early. We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter, and bring in spring. Now, all of you have your vests, and have been assigned to your teams, so let's do even better than last year, and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever! Alright everypony, find your team leader, and let's get galloping!” The Mayor spoke, pausing at regular intervals to let the crowd cheer. The ponies in the crowd began to disperse.

Three months of winter coolness and awesome holidays!

We've kept our hoovsies warm at home, time off from work to play!

But the food we've stored is runnin' out and we can't grow in this cold.

And even though I love my boots, this fashion's getting old.

The time has come to welcome spring and all things warm and green, but it's also time to say goodbye. It's winter we must clean. How can I help? I'm new, you see. What does everypony do? How do I fit in without magic? I haven't got a clue!

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer!
Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 

'Cause tomorrow spring– 
–is here! 
'Cause tomorrow spring is here! 

Bringing home the southern birds, a Pegasus' job begins. And clearing all the gloomy skies, to let the sunshine in. We move the clouds and we melt the white snow…
When the sun comes up its warmth and beauty will glow!

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer. Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here. 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! 

Little critters hibernate under the snow and ice.

We wake up all their sleepy heads, so quietly and nice. 

We help them gather up their food. Fix their homes below. 

We welcome back the southern birds. 

So their families can grow! 

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter) Let's finish our holiday cheer. Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter) 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! (Winter, winter) 'Cause tomorrow spring is here. 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! 

No easy task to clear the ground, plant our tiny seeds.

With proper care and sunshine. Everyone it feeds.

Apples, carrots, celery stalks. Colourful flowers too! We must work so very hard. 

It's just so much to do! 

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!
'Cause tomorrow spring is here!

'Cause tomorrow spring is here!

Now that I know what they all do, I have to find my place. And help with all of my heart. Tough task ahead I face. How will I do without my magic, help the Earth pony way? I wanna belong so I must, do my best today, do my best today! 

Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up!

'Cause tomorrow spring is here. 'Cause tomorrow spring is here. 'Cause tomorrow spring is here!

Phoenix watched Twilight on the cliff for a moment before she walked back to the town before returning his attention to Applejack.

“Alright, everypony! We’ve gotta plough the fields and move all that darn snow before we can plant the seeds. Half o’ you start your ploughin’ and the rest o’ you plant the seeds in the dirt underneath.” Applejack said to the plant team who all acknowledged her instructions and dispersed. Phoenix attached himself to a plough and began to push the contraption. He was clearly having more trouble than the rest of the ploughing ponies were, due to his anatomy.

After nearly half an hour, Applejack noticed that Phoenix’s plough was moving much slower than all of the others. She was afraid something like that would happen, due to a combination of Phoenix’s lack of muscle, inexperience with manual labour and the fact that he was a unicorn. Earth Ponies biologically had the greatest physical strength and stamina of the three pony races, while Pegasi are the lightest and most aerodynamic and Unicorns had the most physical and spiritual endurance to pain. Applejack walked down from the hill she was overseeing everypony on to see how Phoenix was faring. She grimaced slightly when she saw the state Phoenix was in. He was straining to push the plough with sweat pouring down his face and his limbs were shaking as they moved. He didn’t falter, though. He continued to do the task he was given, despite his obviously painful exhaustion.

“You really don’t look so good, Phoenix.” Applejack said worriedly. Her sudden appearance seemed to startle Phoenix slightly.

“Oh, hey AJ. Didn’t see you there.” Phoenix said in between heavy pants.

“Phoenix, you look about ready to collapse. Ya need to take a break.” Applejack said very seriously with a hint of urgency.

“...Alright. I will after I finish up here.” Phoenix said before he began to try to push the plough again. Applejack then literally pulled him from the plough with her immense strength and looked at him.

“You. Break. Now.” Applejack ordered.

“Alright, alright! Bloody Earth Pony strength.” Phoenix said as he was struggling to stay on his shaky hooves.

“Damn. Ah didn’t think Unicorns were so frail.” Applejack said with a teasing smile, causing Phoenix to look at her in annoyance.

“We’re not frail! Our strength just isn’t as herculean as yours is.” Phoenix retorted causing Applejack to chuckle.

“...Phoenix, can ah ask you somethin’?” Applejack asked the drained stallion.

“Yeah? What is it?” Phoenix permitted.

“Why didn’t you use magic when ah wasn’t lookin’? Or keep goin’ as long as you did?” Applejack asked.

“Well, Unicorns have a higher tolerance of pain than the other races do, so I knew I could handle it. Besides, if I used magic to make the job easier for me, I wouldn’t be able to look into your eyes and say that I did an honest bit of work. I couldn’t do that to you.” Phoenix said as he looked into her eyes and gave a tired smile. Applejack was glad that she looked behind her to see Twilight approaching, because if she hadn’t, Phoenix would’ve seen the intense blush that covered her face.

“A-ah’m just gonna see what Twilight wants. Don’t you move from this spot.” Applejack said quickly without turning around. Phoenix gave a tired, confused expression, but complied as Applejack walked up to Twilight. They began to converse until Twilight walked to Phoenix’s discarded plough. He watched as she tried to move it with all her strength, but to no avail. Eventually, Phoenix noticed that the entire plough was encased with a bright lavender aura. Phoenix immediately knew that Twilight was going to move it with her magic. As Twilight began to set off, Phoenix slowly walked over to Applejack and Spike, due to his lack of energy.

As Twilight walked by where the three were standing, Spike noticed Twilight’s horn glowing, while Phoenix’s horn emitted its own black aura. The aura around Twilight’s plough became black instead of lavender as it came to a complete stop against Twilight’s will. She looked at the plough in confusion before looking towards Phoenix with a scowl. She stormed over to him, her expression not changing once.

“What was that all about, Phoenix?!” Twilight and Applejack said simultaneously. Phoenix ignored their question and directed his gaze at Twilight.

“Twilight, you know that using magic for Winter Wrap Up is not allowed.” Phoenix said pointedly. Twilight’s eyes became pinpricks as Applejack moved her scowl from Phoenix to Twilight.

“You used magic?!” Applejack asked angrily. Twilight had a look on her face that was a mix of fear and shame as nodded her head. Applejack began to advance on her with an angry look on her face, before Phoenix grabbed Applejack from behind, wrapping his hooves around her to stop her from getting any nearer to Twilight. Applejack noticed the hooves immediately as she felt the presence of the stallion behind her. All feelings of anger left Applejack and were replaced with immense embarrassment from feeling the stallion grab her from behind as a bright red blush completely covered her face. She pushed Phoenix off of her, but didn’t get any nearer to Twilight. Instead, she calmly inhaled and exhaled for a minute or two before turning to Twilight.

“Ah’m sorry, Twilight. Ah lost control. As long as nopony got hurt, we can all just go back to work and forget this happened.” Applejack apologised. As the day progressed, Applejack noticed that the snow and ice wasn’t melting quickly enough. She made a dash for the town, leaving Phoenix, Twilight and Spike.

“Why’d she run off like that?” Spike asked as Twilight and Phoenix stopped pushing the plough they were sharing.

“She wouldn’t have if she didn’t think it was important.” Phoenix replied.

“Maybe we should follow her.” Twilight said as she removed herself from the plough. The trio began to walk back to town, only to discover multiple ponies bickering about the problems that arose during the recent minutes. Finally the Mayor released a cry of woe and a wish for organisation. Phoenix looked over to Twilight to see her eyes shining as she told Spike to retrieve some of her organisation supplies. She then gained the attention of everypony by squeezing a small bird with her magic, making it release a shrill screech. She then made it her mission to make every team as efficient and time saving as possible. And she succeeded that mission. As time was running out, the townsponies were never plagued by that thought. They were doing their jobs to wrap up winter.

Everypony worked deep into the night, all the way to daybreak. Even Mayor Mare chipped in and did her bit. Eventually, a single thought crept into everypony’s heads that simply astounded them. Spring had arrived... on time. The Mayor confronted Twilight and congratulated her for the organisation the Twilight provided. To show Twilight the thanks she deserved on behalf of the town, she was awarded her own unique role to play in Winter Wrap Up. The All-Team Organiser. Phoenix would have picked the word ‘overseer’, but he thought that was good too.

As the crowd dispersed once again to return to their homes, most likely to either sleep or celebrate, Phoenix and the girls enjoyed one drink at Sugarcube Corner before parting. Phoenix reviewed some things that he noticed the previous day. First, Applejack and Caramel on seemingly decent terms as he saw him working on the plant team. It warmed his heart a little to see that neither of them were holding any kind of grudge.  Second, how much the Mayor actually cared for the town and its inhabitants. He could see how much it pained her to see Spring coming late once again, and the joy on her face when it came on time instead. Third...

...The blush on Applejack’s face as they talked. He pretended he didn’t notice, but he did. She didn’t seem like the shy type, meaning there was mainly one thing it could mean...

...But, that just couldn’t be true.

It just made no sense.
> Suited For Success
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix found it hard to believe that his friends were always getting into situations that should’ve torn them apart, but simply brought them closer together. In fact, there were so many shows of friendship that simply brought warmth to Phoenix’s cold heart. Rainbow showing her loyalty to them when Gilda was a threat to them. Rainbow’s bond with Applejack strengthening in Autumn during the Running of the Leaves. Applejack and Rarity putting aside their differences. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo defending Apple Bloom from Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon during Diamond’s cute-ceañera. It was all wonderful.

But, what about Phoenix?

He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was growing more and more distant from his friends, despite seeing no evidence of it. Phoenix was contemplating his hypothesis as Cheerilee taught the class about the history of Canterlot.  He decided to look into his hypothesis when he had more evidence and decided to think of something different. He remembered Twilight telling him that Rarity had had a burst of inspiration and promised to create dresses for all of the girls and a suit for Phoenix to wear for the Grand Galloping Gala.

Phoenix’s thoughts were interrupted by the school bell sounding. As the children began to file out, Phoenix stopped two particular fillies in order to get to the bottom of something.





Rarity sighed in relief as she finally finished the last of her friends’ dresses. Excitement overtook her as she giddily called the girls to let them know that their dresses were complete.





“So, girls. Do you know why I want to talk to you?” Phoenix asked.

“No.” Diamond Tiara said with a bored expression.

“No, Mr Fortesque.” Silver Spoon said a little more politely.

“I’ve been told that you two have been bullying the other ponies in the class, and yesterday I had confirmation to those claims at your cute-ceañera, Diamond. I really don’t like bullying, girls. I want to talk to you about it.” Phoenix explained to the girls.

“Why? Because we laughed at that blank flank?” Diamond asked rudely.

“Yes. Why have you been doing this?” Phoenix asked them.

“Because, it’s funny.” Diamond said casually.

“...What about when it stops being funny?” Phoenix asked. They didn’t immediately answer.

“What do you mean?” Silver asked.

“I once knew somepony who was bullied non-stopped by somepony else. It was really, really getting to him, so he tried to find any way to cope with the pain he was feeling.” Phoenix explained.

“Did he find a way?” Silver asked, a little more intrigued than Diamond.

“Yes.”

“See? No problem with what we’re-.” Diamond started to interrupt before she herself was interrupted.

“Self harming.” Phoenix said seriously. The look on both Diamond’s and Silver’s faces became ones of shock.

“S-self harming?!” Silver asked in shock.

“Yes. Feeling a physical pain distracted him from the deep emotional pain that he was feeling. As the physical pain faded, he would feel better. But, it was far from a healthy emotional vent. Eventually, he told somepony about it, but word of it began to spread until it reached the bully.” Phoenix explained.

“What did the bully say? Did they apologise?” Diamond asked, actually fearful of the answer.

“No. The bully laughed in his face. He then said that if he wanted to feel pain, all he had to do was ask. The bully then grabbed him and threw him around before dropping him into a manticore’s nest.” Phoenix said. The girls gasped.

“That’s horrible! Not just the attack, but laughing at something so serious!” Diamond said with shock and disgust.

“That would be like if we laughed at Scootaloo, because she can’t fly yet! We’d never do that!” Silver said in the same manner causing Diamond to nod in agreement.

“You never know, girls. What if you run out of things to mock when it comes to the Crusaders?” Phoenix asked.

“We wouldn’t go that far!” Diamond announced, none of her previous confidence present.

“Bullies do evolve over time, because they lose the ability to see any differently than how they treat their victims.” Phoenix explained.

“...Like the bully in your story?” Silver asked timidly.

“Yes, Silver. And do you know who that victim grew up to be?” Phoenix asked. The girls shook their heads to show that they didn’t. Phoenix loosened his tie and unbuttoned his shirt to show the faint scars along his chest. The girls looked confused at first, but the looks of confusion quickly became ones of shock. Phoenix then buttoned his shirt back up and fastened his tie.

“Scars don’t heal, girls. They can fade... but, they never go away. You two still have the chance to stop yourselves before you inflict any scars. Please, girls. Stop now.” Phoenix softly pleaded. The girls had tears in their eyes as they looked at the stallion before them.

“Would what we’re doing really inflict that much damage?” Silver asked with a sniffle. It pained Phoenix to see, but some lessons are not easily learned.

“The damage just builds and builds like a snowball rolling down the side of a snowy mountain. I’m not asking you two to beg the Crusaders’ forgiveness, or even apologise. You can if you want to... but, I just want to stop you both... before you become monsters.” Phoenix saw them flinch slightly at the final word. They nodded silently with tears streaming down their faces. Phoenix silently walked around his desk and wrapped the two of them in a hug to which they clung to him in sadness. Not for themselves, but for him. The bell rang again and the fillies and colts returned to the classroom as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon went back to their seats.





Rarity sat on her haunches in the corner of her workroom after the rest of the girls left. She couldn’t believe it. They didn’t like them. She poured her heart and soul into those dresses and... they weren’t good enough.

“Oh, Opal... I have to get these dresses done, but... why am I dreading it so?”





The rest of the school day seemed to go as smoothly as one could hope. No disturbances, complications or harsh comments. There was another lecture about cutie marks which caused the Crusaders to look at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon with annoyed looks. But, that changed when they saw that the girls weren’t even looking at them. The Crusaders looked at each other in confusion before slowly looking back to Cheerilee. Phoenix in that moment, knew that his words had really left an impact on them. The final school bell of the day sounded and most of the fillies and colts  ran from the classroom, laughing as they did so.

Apart from two.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon walked up to Phoenix and asked him the question he was praying that they wouldn’t. The question he’d hoped to never answer again. The question that’s answer he’s tried his hardest to forget.

“Mr Fortesque, who was the pony who bullied you? My daddy can find him for you.” Diamond said with determination. Phoenix didn’t answer. He tried to swallow a lot of hatred, anger and shame before he could open his mouth.

“...Amadeus Fortesque. My late father.” Phoenix said softly. The fillies gaped in horror at the new revelation as Phoenix walked out of the schoolhouse, leaving them to watch in sadness as he walked away. Phoenix walked into his house and dropped his bag down by the front door. He exhaled slowly before walking into the kitchen and using his magic to retrieve an apple which he immediately began eating. Out of his window, he saw the girls heading towards Carousel Boutique. Intrigued, he walked to his window and watched them go. A minute later, he walked out of his door and followed them.

When he reached the boutique, the girls emerged with happy looks on their faces. They didn’t notice Phoenix as they walked in a different direction than the one Phoenix was in. He simply shrugged before walking into the boutique.

Rarity was pacing in her workroom, contemplating what she should do. Let Hoity Toity see the horrific creations that should have never seen the light of day? Or cancel and be the laughing stock of the fashion world and an outcast among her friends? She was caught between a rock and a hard place and couldn’t get free. Her thoughts were interrupted by a stallion’s voice calling from downstairs.

“Rarity? Are you here?” Phoenix called out. In that moment, Rarity remembered something that she had done.

She’d forgotten to make Phoenix’s suit.

“...Shit.” Rarity squeaked as she wished that Celestia would strike her down in that moment. Phoenix walked up the stairs and calmly walked into her workroom.

“Evening, Rarity.” Phoenix greeted in a chipper tone.

“H-hello, Phoenix.” Rarity said as she began to sweat slightly.

“How’s your day been?” Phoenix asked despite noticing that she was very nervous and wondering what got her into that state.

“I-it's... It could have been better, darling.” Rarity admitted sombrely.

“What do you mean?” Phoenix asked. Rarity swallowed her pride and her borderline crippling anxieties and began to explain. She talked about the dresses that she made to be perfect for the girls, but the girls rejecting them, causing her to start from scratch and take up the whole day making the new ones. The dresses that were described as atrocities by Rarity. She finally ended her explanation with a pitiful and shamed confession about not having enough time or memory to make Phoenix’s suit. She covered her face with her hooves and didn’t dare look at Phoenix. She spent a few seconds imagining all possible outcomes of telling Phoenix the truth.

Phoenix yelling at her. Hitting her. Abandoning her. Simply walking away. But, she never even considered... Phoenix hugging her.

“Rarity. It’s alright.” Phoenix said soothingly as he let her go.

“It most certainly is not! After focusing on our friends, but forgetting about you entirely? I can’t let you forgive me just like that!” Rarity announced with tears in her eyes.

“That doesn’t matter. You made a simple mistake. Life’s full of them.” Phoenix replied, never once raising his voice.

“What? What do you mean?” Rarity asked as her tears ran down her face, taking her mascara with them.

“...Life is like a river. It has its twists and turns, it has things that can make it mucky and unpleasant. You can throw a stone into the water and it will ripple and disrupt the flow, but the river keeps going on. Things that can be easily fixed, forgiven and forgotten are just those little stones. Life goes on and so should we. Together.” Phoenix explained. Rarity didn’t respond as her tears continued to flow. She then sniffed and looked Phoenix in the eyes.

“Thank you...” She said as she wiped her eyes. She then asked Phoenix if he could leave her to be alone. Phoenix hesitated, but didn’t want to disrespect her wishes; so he gave her one last hug before honouring her wish for solitude. He couldn’t help but worry as he walked home and the sun began to set in the sky.

A few hours later, preparations were complete for the fashion show that the girls were setting up. A stage had been erected for special occasions, so all they had to do was hire it out for the fashion show. Phoenix was definitely nervous for Rarity as the show was about to start. He was praying that Rarity was exaggerating about the dresses that the girls wanted.

She wasn’t.

Phoenix couldn’t watch. He took a look at what the girls had the audacity to make Rarity create and left. He didn’t look back once until he reached his home and laid his head to rest.

Over the next few days, nopony had seen or heard from Rarity. Phoenix understood and decided to wait until she was ready to talk. The girls, however wanted to comfort Rarity. One morning, Phoenix was awoken by the sound of knocking on his door. Without bothering to fix his bed-mane, he walked to his door and looked at the ponies there with sleepy annoyance.

“Told you he’s a grumpy riser.” Pinkie said to the girls. Phoenix yawned before turning back to them with the same annoyed, tired expression.

“What do you lot want?” Phoenix said simply.

“We’re going to talk to Rarity.” Twilight answered.

“Has it occurred to you that maybe she doesn’t want to be talked to?” Phoenix tiredly replied.

“We were considerin’ that, but she hasn’t come outta her room for the longest time now.” Applejack said.

“Yeah. I heard from Scootaloo that even Sweetie Belle hasn’t seen her.” Rainbow added. That caught Phoenix’s attention.

“Not even Sweetie? Then, she’s trying to vent all by herself... You girls are right, we should go see her.” Phoenix said, his drowsiness and grumpiness forgotten. They walked to Carousel Boutique together to see that the front door wasn’t locked. They walked to the upper floor and Pinkie knocked on Rarity’s door.

“Rarity? You okay in there? You haven't come out for days.” Pinkie said through the door.

“I'm never coming out! I can't show my face in Ponyville ever again! I used to be somepony. I used to be respected. I made dresses. Beautiful, beautiful dresses! But now everypony is laughing at me. I'm nothing but a laughing stock!” Rarity wailed from the other side of the door.

“You're not a laughing stock, Rarity...” Twilight started to say in a soothing tone.

“She kinda is.” Rainbow Dash interrupted rudely.

“Shhh! Come on out and talk to us.” Twilight finished in the same soothing tone.

“Leave me alone! I want to be alone! I want to wallow in... whatever it is that ponies are supposed to wallow in! Do ponies wallow in pity? Oh, listen to me, I don't even know what I'm supposed to wallow in! I'M SO PATHETIC!” Rarity wailed. Before anypony could reply, Phoenix walked up to her door.

“Rarity, this is just a pebble in the river.” Phoenix said, much to many other ponies’ confusion.

But, not Rarity.

“More like a boulder that’s blocking my stream, darling.” Rarity replied sadly.

“Even the mightiest mountain erodes in the steady current of life. We’ll get past this. All of us, together.” Phoenix replied.

“How can we get past this? My career is ruined!” Rarity yelled.

“You can use the old dresses you made, still. I can get Hoity Toity back here.” Phoenix said.

“...You can? How?” Rarity asked hopefully.

“He owes me a favour. If I get him back here and he sees your designs, your career will be back on track.” Phoenix said. Silence fell. A few moments later, the sound of a door unlocking filled the air and Rarity emerged from her room. Everypony gathered and hugged her. The hours that followed consisted of Rarity and the girls completing a dress that Rarity had designed for herself as well as preparing the old dresses. Phoenix, on the other hoof, had already called Hoity Toity and gave him an offer he couldn’t refuse.





“Hello, HT Fashion, how may I help you?” A female voice on the phone said.

“Hello, I’d like to speak to Hoity Toity, please.” Phoenix said politely.

“I’m afraid he’s not taking calls at the moment.” The mare responded.

“This is Phoenix Fortesque. Tell him I’m collecting his debt.” Phoenix said darkly. He listened as the secretary called out and a male voice called back. The male voice got steadily more afraid as the secretary informed him on who was calling. Within seconds, Hoity Toity picked up the phone.

“Mr Fortesque?” Hoity said nervously.

“Mr Toity. You have a debt to pay.” Phoenix replied.

“Come now, Mr Fortesque, s-surely we can talk this out.” Hoity tried to negotiate.

“I stopped your company from going bankrupt. With what I want from you, you’re getting off easy.” Phoenix said, becoming annoyed.

“Well, what do you want?”

“You know the fashion designs you saw in Ponyville a few days ago?”

“Oh, those abominations? Yes.”

“Well, the designer wants to have you back for a second fashion show.”

“Oh! I’d never see that designer again!” Hoity said in disgust.

“...Are you saying you want to find some... other way of paying me back? Like your blood?” Phoenix said threateningly.

“...I suppose one more show wouldn’t hurt.” Hoity replied quietly.

“There we go. I expect you here within the next few hours.” Phoenix said before he hung up. 





Hours later when the dressmaking was finished and the runway was complete, Phoenix saw Hoity Toity walking towards the boutique.

“This is all you want as payment?” Hoity asked.

“Yes, thank you for this. Just sit and watch the show, that’s all I ask.” Phoenix replied. Hoity nodded and walked inside. Phoenix didn’t bother. He knew this one would go much more smoothly, so he just walked home. After doing a little cleaning, he heard a knock at his door. He looked to his clock and saw that it was half past nine, leading him to wonder who could be at his door. He opened the door to see Rarity standing there.

“Rarity? Why are you here? Did the show go alright?” Phoenix asked. Rarity nodded before stepping a little closer.

“I came here to thank you, Phoenix. You’ve done so much for me over the course of the past week and I’ve got nothing for you in return. Your suit isn’t even finished yet.” Rarity said sombrely.

“It’s alright, Rarity. I don’t need anything in return.” Phoenix replied, but Rarity wasn’t finished.

“No, darling. I refuse to let you go unrewarded and your gala suit is technically a gift, so it doesn’t count. So, I suppose this will have to do.” Rarity said before moving her muzzle to Phoenix’s face and kissing him on the cheek. Phoenix’s entire face went a deep red as soon as her lips came into contact with his skin as some of the hairs on his coat stood on end. His eyes shot to the widest they would physically go as they watched Rarity’s face in very close proximity to his.

She finally pulled back and giggled at the redness of Phoenix’s face. Phoenix pouted and looked away in embarrassment as Rarity continued to quietly giggle. She began to walk back out of the door and looked back.

“I’ve just realised that I don’t even have your measurements, darling. Come by the boutique tomorrow so I can get them. I’ll be sure to be quite... thorough.” Rarity finished with a wink before walking out and shutting the door behind her. Phoenix remained completely motionless for a number of minutes before touching his cheek with his hoof and walking absent-mindedly to his room and flopped down onto his bed. All with only one thought on his mind.

‘What the fuck just happened?’
> Feeling Pinkie Keen
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“And finally... Apple family products.” Phoenix said to himself as he read the final item on his shopping list. He walked through the market as the eleven o’clock sun blazed above the town, silently noting what everypony was doing. He couldn’t help it sometimes. He just noticed things. Sometimes, things he didn’t want to. He continued to walk through the market and reached the Apple family stall with Applejack manning it. As he approached, Applejack saw him coming and her face lit up.

“Hey, Phoenix! Nice to see a friendly face!” Applejack said cheerfully.

“Why’s that? Slow day?” Phoenix asked kindly, appreciating the compliment.

“Yeah. Nopony’s buyin’ today. Ah guess everypony’s already stocked on apples. Or just don’t want ‘em.” Applejack answered.

“Well, almost everypony is stocked. I need to restock. And everypony wants Apple family apples, AJ.” Phoenix said with a smile.

“Why do ya think that?” Applejack asked curiously.

“Whether it’s the food or the service, everypony comes back for more.” Phoenix said with a wink, causing Applejack to blush.

“That silver tongue ain’t gonna work, Phoenix. Ya still gotta pay full price.” Applejack said with a playful smirk, despite her red cheeks.

“Curses, foiled again. Can I see your pie?” Phoenix replied with a laugh, before making his request. Applejack’s eyes shot as wide as they would go as the blush greatly intensified.

“Y-you wanna see mah WHAT?!” Applejack nearly screamed. Phoenix merely looked surprised.

“You usually sell pies. Have you sold out?” Phoenix asked, confused. 

“No. Sorry. Mah bad. Here you go.” Applejack reached under the stall and pulled out an apple pie wrapped in cling film. Applejack seemed to calm down and in that moment was thankful that Phoenix wasn’t the best at understanding slang. She knew that he wouldn’t understand her misunderstanding. Phoenix’s eyes grew wider for a second, before he gave Applejack a half-lidded gaze and the biggest smirk he’d ever given.

“You thought I meant something naughty, didn’t you, Applejack?” Phoenix said in a low, teasing tone.

Apparently, he was getting better at it.

“U-uh... No?” Applejack said as she began to sweat and her eyes began to shift left to right. Phoenix’s expression didn’t change, but he leaned a little closer.

“No, Phoenix, Ah didn’t.” Applejack said a little more forcefully, her cheeks still red and her brow still covered in sweat. Phoenix leaned in a little more.

“No, Phoenix! Ah didn’t think that!” Applejack raised her voice as the blush intensified slightly. Phoenix didn’t lean any further but did remain motionless.

“JUST FUCK ALREADY!!” Lyra screamed loudly as she was watching the exchange between the two. Both Phoenix’s and Applejack’s faces changed to a deep shade of red as they both looked at Lyra in shock. Another pony then grabbed Lyra by the foreleg and pulled her away from the farm pony and the gambler.

“Sorry.” Bon-Bon said before making a drinking motion with her hoof and dragging her through the market. Silence fell between Phoenix and Applejack as they watched them go. They eventually returned their attention to each other, whilst avoiding eye contact.

“I-I’d like some Golden Delicious and an apple pie, please.” Phoenix requested quietly. Applejack silently nodded before getting a bag of yellow apples and placing them in front of her as Phoenix placed the bits necessary next the bag. With no words, they exchanged the food for the money. The silence was broken by a deep voice chuckling. They turned to see Big Macintosh heartedly chuckling at the two of them, having seen everything that happened. Phoenix eventually joined in with the laughter, closely followed by Applejack. After a while, the laughter subsided and the three of them returned to their senses.

“What’re you doin’ here, Big Mac?” Applejack asked.

“Ah came to do mah shift on the stall.” Mac replied simply.

“Is it half eleven already?” Applejack asked in a surprised tone.

“Eeyup.” Mac replied.

“Hey, Applejack. Since you’re done now, do you want to hang out?” Phoenix asked.

“Well, Ah guess Ah could. Sure.” Applejack replied. She emerged from behind the stall and the two set off through the market after Phoenix placed his purchased items into his bag. As they walked, they chatted about many things; which eventually led them back to Lyra’s comment. They chuckled nervously as they seemed to tip-hoof through the subject.

“It’s one reason why I don’t get drunk. It makes you say nonsensical things like that.” Phoenix said to try and cut through the awkwardness.

“Yeah, Ah agree. But, Ah still have no idea why she said it.”  Applejack asked.

“I couldn’t hazard a guess.” Phoenix replied a little too quickly.

“Ah get the feelin’ you can.” Applejack replied levelly. Phoenix mentally cursed for slipping up so easily.

‘I’ve never done that before. Why now?’ Phoenix thought.

“Well... I’ve heard several rumours concerning me... and the girls.” Phoenix slowly said.

“What’re the rumours about?” She asked.

“They say some... vulgar things.” Phoenix admitted as his cheeks turned slightly pink. Applejack’s cheeks went more pink than Phoenix’s did, but it was still noticeable.

“Oh... Then, why did Lyra say it when we were together?” Applejack asked.

“Well, the majority of the rumours are... about the two of us.” Phoenix finished uneasily. Applejack blushed more as she looked like she was in thought. They walked until they saw Spike looking into a ditch. They looked themselves to see Twilight starting to emerge.

“Uh, Twilight? Why are you hangin’ out in a ditch?” Applejack asked.

“Because Pinkie Pie predicted it!” Spike answered for Twilight.

“Honestly, Spike, she did not. Two coincidences in a row like this may be unlikely, but it's still easier to believe than twitchy tails that predict the future.” Twilight said sceptically. The colour in Applejack’s and Phoenix’s faces drained instantly.

“Twitchy tail?!” Applejack asked fearfully.

“Pinkie Sense?!” Phoenix asked in the same tone. They both dived under a nearby stall as the wrapped their hooves around each other protectively.

“Don’t worry, it’s safe. The prediction already came true.” Spike said calmly. Phoenix and Applejack didn’t move for a moment as they noticed their position. They quickly untangled themselves and rushed from under the stall.

“Oh, wait. Don't tell me you two believe in this stuff, too?” Twilight asked in shock.

“I know it doesn't make much sense, but those of us who have been in Ponyville a while, have learned over time that, if Pinkie's-a-twichin', you better listen.” Applejack said, having recovered from her embarrassing predicament.

“Even you, Phoenix?” Twilight asked the normally level-headed stallion.

“Sorry, Twilight. There are just some things that you can’t explain.” Phoenix replied. Suddenly, Pinkie ran up to them as her ears were moving.

“My ears are flopping! My ears are flopping!” Pinkie exclaimed, causing Spike to recoil in fright.

“What does that mean?!” Spike asked fearfully. Pinkie merely turned to Twilight with a somewhat guilty expression.

“I’ll start a bath for you.” Pinkie said.

“Huh? A bath? This thing keeps on getting more ridiculous by the minute!” Twilight said with an amused tone before a cart raced by behind her, splashing her with a nearby puddle and covering her in mud. She then growled angrily.

“I’ll go clean her up.” Pinkie said to Applejack and Phoenix.

“You know, if I was the one running the bath, that’s one of the rumours.” Phoenix said to Applejack, causing her to chuckle. Pinkie then took Twilight and Spike to Sugarcube Corner, leaving Phoenix and Applejack alone. Applejack asked what they could do, but Phoenix informed her that he needed to see Rarity about the measurements for his suit. Applejack headed back Sweet Apple Acres as Phoenix headed to Carousel Boutique. When he arrived, he knocked the door and awaited a response. The door opened to reveal a small filly with white fur and dual-coloured mane and tail.

“Hello, Mr Fortesque!” Sweetie squeaked happily.

“We’re not in school, Sweetie. Just ‘Phoenix’ will do.” Phoenix chuckled.

“Okay! What are you doing here?” Sweetie asked curiously.

“I actually need to see Rarity about my measurements.” Phoenix said. Sweetie led him inside to hear a voice from upstairs.

“Who was it, Sweetie? Did you tell them that I’m not seeing anypony today?” Rarity asked sweetly, but with a sense of tired irritation.

“It’s Phoenix asking about his measurements.” Sweetie called up. Rapid hoofsteps met Sweetie’s and Phoenix’s ears as Rarity rushed into the room within a few seconds. Her irritation forgotten, she gave a large smile to Phoenix and led him to her workroom. Phoenix stood on a podium with mannequins placed on it and watched Rarity look for something. She then held a tape-measure in her magic and suddenly pulled it taught making a snapping, whipping sound.

Which made Phoenix very nervous.

“Sorry, darling. But, I don’t pull punches when I’m ‘in the zone’.” Rarity said with an innocent smile that Phoenix considered to be the evilest thing he’d ever seen.

An hour later, Rarity finished taking the measurements, much to Phoenix’s relief.

“That. Was. Awkward.” Phoenix said.

“What do you mean, darling?” Rarity asked a little too innocently.

“You, a gorgeous mare, in close proximity to my body for about an hour? Come to think of it, that resembles one of the rumours going around.” Phoenix said. Rarity giggled.

“Yes, I’ve heard one or two of them. I can’t fathom the logic in some of them.” Rarity said.

“I know. I mean, I’ve heard one about Pinkie Pie and I. I’m more like a father to her than a lover.” Phoenix said incredulously. Rarity agreed as she looked over the measurements.

“Well, your measurements aren’t too different than my predictions. You’re a little slimmer than I thought, though.” Rarity said.

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Phoenix said with a half-hearted expression.

“The progress I’ve made with your suit can be easily edited to conform to the measurements, though.” Rarity  said kindly.

“Thank you again, Rarity. If you don’t need any more from me, I’ll be going.” Phoenix said. They hugged and said their goodbyes before Phoenix left the boutique. He looked around for a moment, only to see Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Twilight and Spike running towards Froggy Bottom Bog. He could see that there was some kind of immediate problem from the looks on their faces. He ran after them and finally caught them after they began to slow down and walk. They informed him that Pinkie had sensed that a ‘doozy’ was going to occur at Froggy Bottom Bog which is where Fluttershy was. Phoenix volunteered to go ahead and check for any immediate danger, to which everypony agreed.

Phoenix ran to the bog and immediately saw Fluttershy as her attention was on the frogs that she was tending to.

“Fluttershy!” Phoenix called, turning her attention to him.

“Phoenix? What are you doing here?” Fluttershy asked.

“The others are on their way. We had reason to believe that you were in danger.” Phoenix said as he looked around trying to spot anything that could be considered a threat. When the others arrived, they immediately asked if Fluttershy was okay, or showing their happiness that she was okay.

All except Twilight.

“Sorry, I know it's not nice to gloat but... AHA! I told you there was nothing to worry about, and I was right. Pinkie Pie said whatever she was shuddering about was a-... doozy, and-... and the only-... doozy here is how right I am.” Twilight said, constantly being interrupted by her own coughs. Unbeknownst to her, there was a creature rising from the swamp behind her.

“Uh... Twilight?” Applejack tried to warn Twilight, fear in her voice.

“Pinkie's made a lot of predictions today but-... ugh, what is that smell? But what we've shown here is that there's no point in believing-... in anything you can't see for yourself.” Twilight continued her cough ridden monologue.

“W-well t-then, s-see what's b-b-behind you, Twilight!” Spike exclaimed fearfully. Twilight looked behind her as the hydra roared through all four heads.

“I see it... But I don't believe it!” Twilight said quietly in complete shock.

“Is that a hydra?!” Pinkie asked.

“Who cares?! RUN!!” Applejack replied. Everypony took her advice to heart as they all ran through the swamp while the hydra chased them. They began to approach a cliff with several pillars of stone acting as stepping stones to the other side. Everypony discussed what should be done, before Fluttershy did something nopony was expecting.

“A hop, skip, and a... jump!” Fluttershy said before jumping across the pillars and reaching the other side. Twilight then threw Spike onto the first pillar before Pinkie nearly fell off the cliff due to her shuddering. Twilight looked back and saw that the hydra was quickly heading their way.

“He's too close. I'll distract him. You two go, no-AAAAAAAAAGGGHHH!!” The last word became a scream as Phoenix used his magic to fling Twilight onto the first pillar.

“I’ll do the distracting. Go!” Phoenix instructed before running in the direction of the hydra. He saw that all four of the heads were lowering with the intention of killing him. He continued to run until he ran under its legs and watched three of the heads follow him, causing the hydra to trip and fall on the remaining head. Phoenix changed direction and ran back towards the cliff. He saw the hydra’s shadow behind him, informing him that it had recovered. He continued to run as the girls were screaming his name and telling him to jump. Before he could, he heard Fluttershy and Twilight scream and Applejack watch in horror a moment before he turned to see one of the hydra’s heads zooming towards him with its mouth open as wide as it could go.

He tried to react, but he simply didn’t have the time to do so. The jaws were practically on him. The only thing he could do was jump backwards into the mouth to avoid the teeth. 

The jaws snapped shut.

Everypony watched in horror when they saw the jaws shut and Phoenix was no longer visible. Tears began to stream down Fluttershy’s cheeks as Twilight and Pinkie had very watery eyes. Applejack replayed the moment in her mind a few times before simply falling to her haunches and watching in sorrowful silence.

‘I knew there would be a doozy, but... not this kind of doozy!!’ Pinkie thought as she began to sob. The silence was broken by the sound of loud coughing. One of the heads was coughing furiously while the other heads looked at it in confused silence. The girls recognised the coughing one as the one who ate Phoenix. The head leaned very far forward to try to line up its oesophagus and trachea as it continued to cough. Everypony looked at it with great confusion before it inhaled greatly and let out an earth-shattering cough.

However, something emerged from the hydra’s mouth and was shot towards the girls. The thing that was ejected from the hydra landed with a splat. Phoenix then stood up, wiped off as much of the fluid that was covering him as he could before turning to the girls. His mane and tail were in disarray, he expression was that of annoyance and his body was shaking from exhaustion.

“That. Was. Disgusting.” Phoenix said before he collapsed and literally fell straight to sleep. The last thing he remembered hearing before sleep overtook him was Pinkie with a mix of pride and surprise in her voice.

“Do you guys think he’s Batmane?”
> Sonic Rainboom
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix bumped into Rainbow Dash when he tried to stretch his aching muscles and she was about to go back to training. Phoenix asked her what she was training for. She explained that she was preparing for the Young Fliers Competition and that she was getting further in her technique and her routine, but the Sonic Rainboom was still giving her trouble. She offered to explain what the Sonic Rainboom was, but Phoenix declined.

“Why explain it, when I know you can show me?” Phoenix replied to her offer. She looked at him wide-eyed for a moment before giving him a determined, glaring smile and shot into the sky to do her routine again, only to fail at the Sonic Rainboom. She crashed into the ground, which led Phoenix to convince her to take a break. Rainbow then remembered that Applejack had carried Phoenix back to town as he slept on her back the previous day. She asked him why, but she wasn’t expecting the answer.

“You were WHAT?!” Rainbow Dash practically screamed.

“I was nearly eaten by a hydra.” Phoenix calmly repeated.

“B- W- H- N-nearly?!” Rainbow had many questions on her mind and obviously couldn’t decide which one to ask.

“Yeah. I managed to get out after I was swallowed.” Phoenix said calmly.

“How the hell did you do that?!” Rainbow exclaimed.

“Its throat was fairly narrow, so I managed to stop my fall by digging my hooves into the walls of its oesophagus. Then I climbed, but I knew that I wouldn’t be able to get past its mouth on my own. So, I climbed into its trachea and dug my hooves in just like with the oesophagus. Obviously, its body reacted by trying to remove the blockage. Have you ever eaten something that went down the wrong hole?” Phoenix began to explain but stopped at the question. Rainbow thought for a moment before her eyes lit up.

“You made it cough!” Rainbow said, proud of her deduction.

“Bingo. Luckily for me, though, its cough flung in the direction of the girls.” Phoenix finished with a smile. Rainbow just sat there with a proud and awestruck smile.

“You’re officially awesome. You reached ‘radical’ when you shot Nightmare Moon, but now you’re just awesome.” Rainbow said. Phoenix smiled and thanked her. A moment later, Fluttershy arrived to accompany Rainbow up to Cloudsdale. They waved goodbye to Phoenix and flew up to the city in the sky. Phoenix stood for a while before he noticed the girls walking towards a large purple balloon, however Rarity had large translucent butterfly-like wings.

“...Okay.” Phoenix said as he walked to them. When he arrived, Twilight hoofed the owner ten bits and turned towards the girls and noticed Phoenix reaching them.

“Phoenix? What are you doing here? You should be resting!” Twilight said worriedly.

“Oh, come on. You get swallowed whole by a giant four-headed creature and everypony gets incredibly protective.” Phoenix chuckled at his sarcastic comment. The girls all looked at him seriously.

“Yes.” Twilight said.

“Yes.” Rarity said.

“Yep.” Applejack said.

“Are you Batmane?” Pinkie Pie asked. Everypony looked at Pinkie Pie in confusion as she continued to watch Phoenix very seriously.

“No, Pinkie. I’m not Batmane.” Phoenix replied.

“That’s what Batmane WOULD SAY!!” Pinkie yelled. Nopony replied. Phoenix simply turned back to Twilight.

“So, considering you’re hiring a hot air balloon, I assume you’re either going for a calm flight or going to see the Young Fliers Competition.” Phoenix said.

“Yeah, we’re goin’ to cheer Rainbow on at the competition.” Applejack answered.

“How do you plan on hanging around Cloudsdale? Is it something to do with Rarity’s new appendages?” Phoenix asked.

“Yeah. But, that spell really takes it out of me. So I cast a cloud-walking spell on the rest of us.” Twilight explained.

“Are you going to do it to me too?” Phoenix asked.

“What? No! You need to stay here and recover.” Twilight said.

“Come on, Twilight. I’m fine.” Phoenix said. Twilight sighed before her horn began to glow and cast the spell on Phoenix. They all climbed into the balloon and released the weights, allowing it to rise from the ground. A few minutes into the flight, Cloudsdale was in their sights. The girls stared in awe at the beauty of the floating city.

While Phoenix was curled up in a ball, trying not to think about how high up they were.

“You doin’ okay down there, Phoenix?” Applejack asked teasingly. Phoenix created letters made out of magic that spelled ‘Fuck you’ in front of Applejack’s face. The balloon emerged through the cloud floor of Cloudsdale and funnily enough, in front of Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.

“This is so cool! You guys made it!” Rainbow said happily.

“Sure did!” Pinkie said happily as she jumped out of the balloon basket. Rainbow screamed for her to wait, but Pinkie landed on the cloud floor as if it were like any other solid surface.

“How'd you do that? Only Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds.” Rainbow said curiously.

“Haha! Pretty cool, huh?” Pinkie said, admiring her new temporary ability.

“I found a spell that makes temporary wings, but it was too difficult to do more than once. So I found an easier spell that lets the rest of us walk on clouds.” Twilight explained as everypony else left the basket.

“And we came to cheer you to victory!” Applejack said confidently.

“Yes, although, I almost wasn’t here.” Phoenix sent a playful scowl to Twilight, which she returned with more malice.

“To be honest, I was starting to get just the teeniest, tiniest bit nervous. But I feel a LOT better now that you guys are here. Hey, we've got some time before the competition. Why don't Fluttershy and I show you around Cloudsdale?” Rainbow said to which everypony agreed. Rainbow then led everypony through the weather factories. Phoenix knew that Cloudsdale’s greatest responsibilities was weather stability.

‘How, I must ask, are they up to the task?’ Phoenix thought to himself, but didn’t have to wait, because Rainbow was fairly extensive and informative. However, the tour was interrupted by three stallions walking up to Rainbow and began to tease her.

“Hey. Leave her be.” Phoenix said to the bullies. They turned and towered over Phoenix.

“Why? What’re you gonna do about it?” Dumb-Bell said as he shoved Phoenix, causing him to stumble slightly.

“I’ll reveal one of your deepest secrets.” Phoenix said and completely analysed their reactions. He saw from their reactions, that they were seemingly trying to physically hide it inside. He knew what to say next.

“Please, you don’t know our secrets!” Dumb-Bell said as he shoved Phoenix again. Phoenix cleared his throat.

“You have a very big crush on Rainbow Dash and you two are closet homosexuals.” Phoenix said as he pointed to Hoops and then to Dumb-Bell and Score. Their faces grew bright red, letting Phoenix know that he was right and everypony else know that they couldn’t lie their way out of it. The bullies saw everypony looking at them and they quickly walked away. The tour then continued until they saw everypony awing at Rarity’s wings and telling her that she should compete in the Young Fliers Competition. Which she said she would.

Rainbow took it well.

By having a panic attack. Time seemed to fly until the Competition was upon them. Fluttershy led Phoenix and the girls to the stands in the Cloudeseum to overlook the competition while Rainbow and Rarity were preparing. One after another, pegasi performed their routines, wowing the crowds. However, the competition was beginning to draw to a close, but neither Rainbow nor Rarity had performed.

“I loved number seven. Doing fifteen barrel-rolls in a row can't be easy.” Twilight complimented.

“Actually, Twilight, those weren’t barrel rolls. When a pegasus spins their body in place, it's call an aileron roll.” Phoenix corrected.

“Can’t let you do that, Phoenix.” Pinkie said somewhat antagonistically.

“Do what?” Phoenix replied.

“Ruin the joke I was going to make.” Pinkie said.

“My favorite is number ten. She just looked like such a nice pony.” Fluttershy said in an attempt to keep the nicer conversation going.

“Hmm.. Wonder how come we haven't seen Rainbow Dash or Rarity yet. The competition's almost over.” Applejack said curiously.

“You know Applejack, I was just thinking the same thing.” Phoenix replied.

“And now, for our final competitor of the day, contestant number fifteen! Uhh... And apparently contestant number four...” The commentator said through the speaker system and the crowd cheered. Rainbow and Rarity seemed to be doing two different routines, but Rainbow was blundering through hers with slip-up after slip-up. Suddenly, Rarity shot into the sky and yelled something to the crowd, but her wing spontaneously combusted and left no trace.

“Oh no! Her wings evaporated into thin air!” Twilight exclaimed.

“She must have flown too close to the sun!” Phoenix said in the same tone. Rarity began to plummet back towards the stadium, causing the Wonderbolts to attempted to save her, but were incapacitated by Rarity’s flailing limbs. Rainbow noticed the four ponies heading towards the ground and sped towards them. As she flew, a mach cone began to form around Rainbow’s body until...

BOOM!!!!

“A Sonic Rainboom! She did it! She did it! WOOO!” Fluttershy screamed in excitement as she jumped up and down. Phoenix, Twilight, Pinkie and Applejack were in stunned silence as the watch the explosion of colour. Phoenix watched as the powerful sonic boom shattered the visible light spectrum. Rainbow continued to race towards Rarity and the Wonderbolts and caught them before they reached the ground, flew over the stadium and leaving a rainbow trail in her wake.

After Phoenix and Twilight took Rarity back to the balloon, Phoenix noticed Rainbow talking to Hoops in the distance. He decided to listen in, but remain out of sight.

“So... yeah. Sorry, Hoops, but... I... I just don’t feel that way about you. I’m sorry.” Rainbow said guiltily. Hoops looked like he was ready to cry, but simply inhaled deeply.

“I knew for a while that was the way it was. I wanna say that I’m sorry for the way I’ve treated you. I was wrong.” Hoops said trying to hold back his emotions.

“Thank you. I forgive you. I’m just... so sorry.” Rainbow said.

“Hey, at least now I have a definite answer. I can move on, now... It’ll just take me a while.” Hoops said as a tear escaped his eye. Rainbow noticed and wrapped her forelegs around his neck and hugged him. She immediately felt his heartbeat increase in his chest as he slowly reciprocated the action. Phoenix watched with pity for the stallion and wondered what he was feeling. That stallion had the mare of his dreams in his forelegs, but knew he couldn't have her. When they released each other, Hoops had tears streaming down his face his simply walked away without a word. Rainbow raised a hoof in a vain attempt to stop him, but also remained silent. Phoenix walked up to her.

“You’ve given him a chance to move on, Rainbow. You’ve done the right thing.” Phoenix said softly. Rainbow turned to him with watery eyes.

“Then, why do I feel so crappy?” She asked sulkily. Phoenix wrapped one foreleg around her and they began to walk back to the balloon.

“Come on, Rainbow, cheer up.” Phoenix said to comfort her.

“It’ll be nice to see how Rarity’s doing, but I don’t think anything’s gonna cheer me up today.” Rainbow replied.
> Stare Master
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Are you sure you don’t mind taking me to Zecora’s, Phoenix?” Twilight said as she and Phoenix walked through town in the direction of the Everfree Forest.

“Of course I don’t mind. It’ll be nice to see Zecora again anyway.” Phoenix replied. Suddenly, three fillies zoomed past both of them, effectively disorientating them. After they recovered their bearings, they noticed that the fillies were the Cutie Mark Crusaders and that Fluttershy was right in front of them. Fluttershy then flew over to them.

"Oh! Hello, Twilight. Hello, Phoenix. Where are you two off to?" She asked.

"We’re heading to the Everfree Forest, to Zecora's, to get some of my favourite tea." Twilight answered. Fluttershy responded with a worried look.

"Th-the Everfree Forest? Uh, you'll be careful, won't you?" Fluttershy asked.

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy. I’m accompanying her to make sure she doesn’t get lost in the forest.” Phoenix continued. Fluttershy seemed to calm down after hearing that.

“Oh, good. With Phoenix there, I’m sure you’ll be fine. N-not that you wouldn’t be fine on your own, but- Oh, dear.” Fluttershy looked around, embarrassed. Twilight giggled soothingly.

“It’s alright, Fluttershy. How about you? What are you doing with the girls?" Twilight replied curiously. Fluttershy landed calmly before continuing the conversation.

"Rarity has a big order to fill tonight, so I volunteered to take the girls over to my cottage for a sleepover." Fluttershy said.

"Wow. Sounds like everypony has their hooves full today. Taking care of those three fillies all by yourself? You sure you can handle it?" Twilight asked in concern.

"What? These sweet little angels? They'll be no problem at all." As Fluttershy spoke; Applebloom, Sweetie Bell, and Scootaloo ran over to us, smiling so sweetly, one could swear they saw halos above their heads. Phoenix looked over to the girls.

“Make sure you behave, girls. I do have Cheerilee’s phone number memorised.” Phoenix said sternly. The girls’ smiles faltered slightly from worry and all three of them gulped lightly before nodding. Fluttershy then led the Crusaders in the same direction as Phoenix and Twilight before turning to walk towards her cottage. The two groups waved goodbye before parting ways as the sun began to set in the sky.

Twilight and Phoenix continued to head to the forest. At the threshold of the forest, Twilight seemed to hesitate. Phoenix turned and smirked.

“Come on, fearless leader. What’s the worst that could happen?” Phoenix said. Twilight opened her mouth to reply, but Phoenix continued to walk into the forest.

“Rhetorical, sweetheart.” Phoenix said. Twilight quickly followed, not wanting to lose her guide. They walked through the forest for a few minutes before they began to converse.

“I’m more than happy to help you, Twilight, but why did you pick me to accompany you here?” Phoenix asked.

“Well, I was going to go alone, but I remembered that you found your way to Zecora’s hut really easily when you were affected by the Poison Joke.” Twilight explained.

“Making me the perfect guide, right?” Phoenix said, more of a statement than a question. Twilight nodded before tripping over. Phoenix was instantly by her side helping her up.

“You alright?” Phoenix asked.

“Yeah. I just tripped on that stupid rock.” Twilight replied. Phoenix’s eyes didn’t leave the rock she pointed to.

The strangely shaped rock...

Once Twilight was on her hooves again, Phoenix picked up the rock with his magic and pulled it closer. What he saw flared his senses and he was ready to move. A stone tortoise with its eyes in a widened state.

“Twilight, we need to move.” Phoenix said with finality.

“What? Why?” Twilight asked.

“There’s a cockatrice on the loose. We need to leave.” Phoenix replied.

“A cockatrice?!” Twilight exclaimed. Before they could react, a creature flew from the shadows and approached them at an incredible speed. Phoenix turned to see what it was.

Which was one of his greatest mistakes.

The only thing in his sight was the crimson gaze of a cockatrice. He felt his hind legs become stiff and impossible to move, but the same sensation continued to spread across his entire body. In his last moments of consciousness, he pushed Twilight out of the way of the cockatrice with his magic. Within seconds, Phoenix’s vision became black and his mind went blank. Twilight watched in horror as Phoenix’s body became stone with a look of fear plastered permanently on his face. Unfortunately, Twilight didn’t have enough time to recover before the cockatrice made eye contact with her, subjecting her to the same fate as Phoenix. Even the single tear she’d shed became stone as well.

The cockatrice retreated back into the shadows when it heard a voice and rapid hoofsteps coming towards the area.

“Twilight? I-is that you? Oh, Twilight, it is you. Phoenix! You’re here too. I need your help. The girls are out here somewhere, and I'm afraid that they're—.“ Fluttershy couldn’t finish her thought as she realised what had happened to the two of them and gasped in complete fear.

“Oh! What's happened to you two?” Fluttershy asked them despite part of her knowing the answer and her friends’ inability to reply.

“Oh, no! If you've been turned to stone, it must mean—Oh! Oh no, the girls! Don't move; I'll be back for the both of you. GIRLS!” Fluttershy said before flying back into the forest to look for the Crusaders.

Silence fell in the forest after Fluttershy left. The moonlight bathed the stone ponies in an azure glow. Suddenly, light began to emerge from Twilight’s stone form as the rock coating shattered and was blasted from her body. She inhaled deeply and coughed a few times before analysing her situation. Her analysis stopped when her eyes met with the statue that was once Phoenix Fortesque. She walked towards him tiredly and put her hoof to his face and flinched at how cold it was. Her tears were about to come again, but the same light emerged from Phoenix the stone was blasted from his body.

Phoenix’s exhaustion hit him hard as he started to sway slightly before stabilising himself. He noticed Twilight immediately as she had already wrapped her hooves around him. They heard voices in the distance, which they recognised as Fluttershy and the Crusaders.

“Come on. Let’s get back to them.” Phoenix said as he began to support Twilight. They walked back to the girls as they both slowly began to recover their strength. When they finally exited the Everfree Forest, Fluttershy offered to house Phoenix and Twilight for the night to recover. Twilight gratefully accepted, while Phoenix politely declined.

“Getting stoned really takes it out of you.” Phoenix said with a smile, causing the girls to laugh and the Crusaders to look confused. Before Phoenix could leave, Twilight stopped him.

“I saw... Before you were encased in stone, you tried to save me.” Twilight said with a smile.

“I suppose it didn’t work.” Phoenix replied.

“It doesn’t matter. Thank you.” Twilight said before hesitantly moving her head forward and kissing his cheek.

Phoenix blushed as Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Fluttershy let out a sound of appreciation for adorableness, while Scootaloo let out a sound of disgust. Phoenix waved as he walked away from the cottage as the girls waved back and went inside.

As Phoenix walked back to town and back to his home, he contemplated the fact the Fluttershy was much more capable and powerful than she allows herself to be.

‘I think I should work on sharpening that rose’s thorns.’ Phoenix thought. However, there was another thought on his mind.

‘Two of the girls have kissed me on the cheek. Is... Is it just something girls do when they’re friends with somepony? Hah... Mares...’ Phoenix thought in defeat before sleep overtook him.

> The Show Stoppers
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Applejack, why did you need to borrow my tools again?” Phoenix asked, motioning to the bag of tools on his back.

“Well, the ones we’ve got broke yesterday and Ah’ve got a surprise for Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo.” Applejack replied as they continued to walk. Eventually, they saw the Crusaders sitting outside the farmhouse, deep in conversation.

“Ah’m back, girls! Phoenix was nice enough to lend us some tools.” Applejack said as she began to walk towards a section of the orchard them appeared to have been abandoned. The trees that surrounded them were completely bare, which explained why it didn’t appear to be tended to at all.

“Where are you takin’ us?” Apple Bloom asked.

“We’re almost there young’uns!” Applejack happily replied.

“I’ve never been here before.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Neither have I, Sweetie Belle. Looks fairly abandoned.” Phoenix said to her. They all ducked under or pushed past a large leaf which actually swung back and lightly hit Scootaloo in the face.

“Are we there yet?” Scootaloo asked.

“There? Where? What? I don’t even know what we’re doing!” Sweetie said with confusion. Applejack suddenly came to a stop.

“Here we are!” Applejack announced happily.

“What’re we lookin’ at?” Apple Bloom asked.

“I have no idea.” Scootaloo answered.

“What is that thing?” Sweetie Belle asked. Phoenix simply looked at the old treehouse that was in complete disarray. Everything about it was: old, damaged and decrepit. It was literally falling apart.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders, welcome to your new clubhouse.” Applejack announced, full of enthusiasm. The girls didn’t react other than looking at the treehouse with unenthusiastic scepticism.

“Well, don’t thank me all at once. This was mah clubhouse when Ah was your age. Sure, it hasn’t been used in a while, but its empty and on a secluded, private part of the farm. And it’s all yours!” Applejack announced proudly, but another part of the tree house crumbled and broke off after she finished speaking.

“It jus’ needs a little, uh, TLC.” Applejack said a little sheepishly.

“TLC as in ‘tender, loving care’ or ‘totally lost cause’?” Scootaloo asked rudely.

“Applejack, we’re supposed to turn this into our new clubhouse?” Apple Bloom asked, a little more politely. Applejack just leaned against the wall of the house.

“Well, maybe y’all will get your cutie marks when you discover your talent is-.”  Applejack’s comment was cut off by the wall giving way and Applejack falling in and being covered by debris. Phoenix and the Crusaders leaned their heads in to see her condition.

“Hey, Applejack. Y’alright?” Phoenix asked. Applejack’s head then poked out from the pile of debris.

“-Uh… Housecleanin’?” Applejack finished. Phoenix carefully walked inside and helped her out of the pile.

“You girls can use my tools to do some rebuilding and refurnishing. I’d like to help, but I know nothing about building. I’d probably be more of a burden than an asset.” Phoenix said as he carried Applejack out.

“That’s alright, Phoenix! Ah’d like to try and do it mahself anyway.” Apple Bloom said with newfound enthusiasm.

“Then, I’m sure the clubhouse is in safe hooves. But, remember, if you need a few extra hooves, you can always ask.” Phoenix said, slipping back into councillor mode. The Crusaders nodded as Phoenix and Applejack began to walk back to the farmhouse. Applejack was being unusually quiet.

“What’s the matter, AJ?” Phoenix asked. Applejack sniffed before looking at him with a sheepish smile and a small amount of tears in her eyes.

“Oh, it’s nothin’. Ah just… Ah’ve got a lot o’ memories o’ that old tree house. Ah hated seein’ it in the state it was in.” Applejack said a little sadly.

“Applejack, if I know Apple Bloom, it won’t be in that state for long.” Phoenix said comfortingly. Applejack sighed.

“Yeah, Ah know. But, even then. Ah see it back the way it was. Ah’ll never have another adventure that started in that clubhouse.” Applejack said with depressed nostalgia. Phoenix took her hoof in his own.

“But, that doesn’t mean that there are no more adventures for you. Whether we’re fighting a goddess or surviving a sleepover, life is never that dull.” Phoenix said before wrapping his hooves around her. Applejack instantly reciprocated the action and even nuzzled her head into his neck. Tears continued to roll down her cheeks and onto Phoenix’s shoulder, but the smile on Applejack’s face proved that she was far from sad. Phoenix even felt her sniff his mane slightly, but quickly disregarded it as her simply inhaling.

After they let go of each other, Phoenix and Applejack went their separate ways. Phoenix decided to visit Cheerilee, while Applejack strangely decided to visit Rarity. As Applejack reached Carousel Boutique, the paranoia she was feeling had only heightened. She hesitated for a moment before knocking the door three times. A moment later the door opened to reveal Rarity.

“Oh! Applejack, darling. I must say that this is a surprise, albeit a pleasant one.” Rarity said with a smile.

“Hey, Rares. Ah, uh... wanna talk to you about somethin’.” Applejack said in a somewhat shaken voice. Rarity’s attitude immediately changed to one of concern.

“Well, please, come in, darling! ...What’s on your mind?” Rarity said as they both took a seat and Rarity offered Applejack some tea, to which she politely declined.

“Ah... did somethin’... really weird.” Applejack said with shame beginning to creep into her voice.

“What? What do you mean by ‘weird’?” Rarity asked.

“Well, Ah gave mah old clubhouse to the Crusaders, but it’s definitely seen better days. Seein’ it brought back old memories. Ah just made mahself sad by thinkin’ that ah’d never have another child-like adventure. When Phoenix comforted me and hugged me, Ah... Ah...” Applejack seemed to have the next words stuck in her throat.

“It’s alright. What did you do, darling?” Rarity asked soothingly. Applejack looked around before motioning Rarity to lean closer. As they both did, Applejack inhaled to try and force the words out.

“...Ah smelled his mane.” Applejack said in a surprisingly vulnerable voice. Rarity sat back onto her chair, before giving Applejack a calming, friendly smile.

“Darling, that’s not a weird thing to do. Many ponies do it.” Rarity said before taking a sip of her tea.

“R-really?! Phew. Ah thought the worst of mahself for a second there.” Applejack said with great relief.

“It does let me know something though.” Rarity said into her cup, but loud enough for Applejack to hear.

“What’s that, sugarcube?” Applejack said, the relief still giving her a slightly numb feeling throughout her body.

“That you like Phoenix as more than a friend.” Rarity said with a smirk.

And with that, all of the relief left Applejack’s system instantly.

“W-what?!” Applejack exclaimed.

“Smelling somepony’s mane is a rather obvious sign of exactly that.” Rarity answered.

“Th-th-that’s just hogwash, Rarity!” Applejack said with finality.

“Your cheeks beg to differ, darling.” Rarity said with a titter. Applejack felt her cheeks and felt that they were too warm and realised that she was blushing. A lot.

“It’s not a whole lot to go on, Rares.” Applejack replied.

“True. If it wasn’t for the fact that it’s obvious.”

“What do you mean ‘obvious’?”

“The way you talk to us and the way you talk to him are very different. You’re a lot more open around him.”

‘Phrasing. Boom!’ Rarity thought and internally giggled at her joke. 

“That doesn’t mean what your sayin’ is right.” Applejack argued.

“Maybe. But, the girls and I have compared notes and you definitely act differently around him.” Rarity countered.

“Why? How did you come to that conclusion?” 

“Whenever you’re around him, you’re calmer, more emotional, and dare I say it... more vulnerable than you are around anyone else.” Rarity said.

“Ah just don’t see it mahself. Try to explain what you mean.” Applejack replied, still having trouble believing what she was hearing.

“Do you remember your attitude when you competed against Rainbow Dash to be the Iron Pony?” Rarity asked, to which Applejack nodded.

“Now compare how that felt with how you felt today around Phoenix.” Applejack didn’t reply. She didn’t respond. Rarity could have sworn that she could’ve heard the wheels turning in Applejack’s head if she moved close enough. After a moment, Applejack ran out of excuses in her mind.

“Sweet Celestia... Ah... like Phoenix. W-what am Ah gonna do?!” Applejack began to panic.

“Applejack, darling! Why are you so stressed all of a sudden?!” Rarity asked in shock.

“Ah’ve never liked anypony like this before! A-A-A-Ah don’t know what to do!” Applejack continued to panic.

“Didn’t you have a boyfriend?”

“Well, yeah. But, it never felt this...” Applejack’s sentence stopped suddenly. Rarity looked at her curiously.

“This... what?” Rarity asked.

“This... good. It feels... good. It feels natural. It feels... right.” Applejack said with a slightly teary smile as her heart was beating a mile a minute. Rarity began to express her giddiness for the farmer’s feelings.

“It feels right to like Phoenix?” Rarity asked happily, hoping for the answer she wanted to hear. Applejack looked through her memories of the stallion as a truly happy, serene smile emerged on her face.

“...Yeah.” Applejack said quietly. Rarity enveloped Applejack in a hug as she squealed in delight. Applejack chuckled as she returned to hug.





Phoenix walked with Cheerilee and Twilight towards the library as the two mares conversed.

“I’d like to thank you again for allowing me to place a talent show poster in your library, Miss Sparkle.” Cheerilee said gratefully.

“It’s fine, Cheerilee. And you can call me ‘Twilight’, you know.” Twilight replied kindly.

“Of course. I’m looking forward to the talent show, though.” Cheerilee said happily.

“I agree. I wonder what each of the acts will do.” Phoenix continued. As they entered the library, Spike gave them a quick and frantic message.

“I had nothing to do with this.”

“What is going on here?” Twilight demanded. On the other side of the room, the Crusaders were neck-deep in a mountain of books.

“Well, we sure aren’t gettin’ our cutie marks of bein’ librarians.” Apple Bloom said irritated.

“Huh. I should think not.” Spike said rudely, clearly annoyed at their antics. Twilight gave Spike a death glare for his comment.

“What?” Spike asked.

“Girls, I think you're going about this the wrong way. Instead of trying to do things in areas you're not familiar with; why not try doing things in areas that you already like?” Twilight said.

“And I have the perfect place to start.” Cheerilee continued. She reached into her saddlebag and unrolled the talent show poster on the ground for the girls to see. They gathered around it as they read it aloud.

“’Showcase your talents...’” Apple Bloom read.

“’...for all to see.’” Scootaloo continued.

“’Perform in the Ponyville school talent show!’” Sweetie Belle finished excitedly.

“There'll be all sorts of awards. Best dramatic performance, best comedy act, best magic act... Surely you can find your talent.” Cheerilee said happily. The Crusaders then began to list things that they could do for the show, steadily growing more and more ludicrous and dangerous.

“My little ponies! You're missing the point. Think about the things you already enjoy doing. Think about what you're already good at.” Twilight hinted.

“Sure! We can do that.” Scootaloo said.

“Yeah! Sure we can.” Sweetie agreed.

“Well, whatever we do, we'll do it as...” Apple Bloom started.

“THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!!” They ended together.

“Actually girls, I was wondering if you’d allow three of your classmates to join you.” Phoenix propositioned.

“Why?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well, nopony else wanted them in their groups. Would you mind having them as part of your performance?” Phoenix explained.

“Well, who are they?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon and Dinky Doo.” Phoenix said calmly.

“What?! The new kid and the bullies?! No way!” Scootaloo said rudely to the rest of the Crusaders’ agreement. Twilight and Cheerilee were quite surprised to see the sudden change in the fillies.

“Now, girls. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon have stopped bullying you, haven’t they?” Phoenix said.

“They’re probably just planning something really mean!” Sweetie squealed.

“They’ve come to me on several occasions asking for the right way to apologise to you. This is a great chance for everypony to put aside their differences.” Phoenix persisted.

“We’re not lettin’ ‘em join.” Apple Bloom said with finality. Phoenix finally glared angrily at the girls causing them to flinch.

“Girls, you may not realise it, but you are the bullies in this situation.” Phoenix said coldly, causing the girls to look confused and a bit offended. Before they could retort, Phoenix continued.

“Not only are you denying two girls the chance to apologise to you and holding them responsible for things that they are no longer doing to you, but you’re also refusing to let a lonely filly that’s new to the class from feeling like she belongs with us. Think about it. I pray you make the right decision in the end.” Phoenix said before walking out of the library without another word. He walked through town for a few minutes to calm himself down. He sat down on a bench to collect his emotions, but about half an hour after he left the library, a grey-coated mare with a blonde mane and tail and a cluster of bubbles for a cutie mark clumsily flew towards him.

“Are you Mr Fortesque?” Ditzy asked Phoenix, unsure if she had the right pony.

“Yes, Miss Doo, I’m Phoenix Fortesque. What can I help you with?” Phoenix asked. Ditzy suddenly hugged the stallion in a surprisingly strong grip.

“I don’t know what you did, but some fillies just let my little Dinky join their group for the talent show! You should have seen her little eyes light up!” Ditzy said with slightly watery eyes. When she finally released the stallion, he looked at Ditzy in the eyes with a bit of confusion.

“Really? Can you tell me who these fillies were? How many of them were there?” Phoenix asked, not reacting to her eyes, as he knew she didn’t like it when ponies did it.

“I didn’t recognise them. There were five of them, though.” Ditzy replied, a little surprised that he hadn’t mentioned anything about her eyes yet.

‘Five? Maybe...’ Phoenix began to ponder what that could mean before turning back to Ditzy.

“Did they mention where they were going to plan their act?” Phoenix asked.

“Hmm... One of them mentioned ‘their new clubhouse’, but they didn’t say where.” Ditzy said, disappointed in herself for not being able to help Phoenix. She was a little surprised when he suddenly smiled.

“They didn’t have to, Miss Doo. I know where they are. Thank you.” Phoenix said with a friendly smile. Ditzy smiled back, suddenly happy that she’d done something right. Ditzy then flew away to get to her job interview. Phoenix then quickly headed to Sweet Apple Acres. After twenty minutes of walking he came to the same abandoned clearing to see a completely refurbished clubhouse done to a professional standard. Below it, sat six fillies discussing what they should do for their act. They weren’t arguing, though. Just discussing.

“Alright, I guess singing is our best bet, then.” Scootaloo said.

“U-um... I-I’m not the best singer.” Dinky Doo said hesitantly.

“It’s okay, Dinky, I’m not either.” Silver Spoon said comfortingly, warranting a smile from the grey filly.

“Twilight said we should do things that we want to do. I don’t know if I want to sing.” Sweetie Belle said nervously. Phoenix walked towards the group, causing the Crusaders to immediately look nervous. However, his serene smile quickly calmed them down.

“How’s it coming along?” Phoenix asked.

“We’ve decided to sing, but we can’t find the best singer among us.” Diamond Tiara said politely.

“Yeah. Sweetie’s a shoe-in, but she just doesn’t wanna sing.” Apple Bloom agreed. The girls seemed to be at peace with each other as there seemed to be no hostility between any of them. 

“Well, why don’t all of you sing? If you can’t sing as well as somepony else, you can duet with said pony.” Phoenix said. The girls looked between each other, casting a silent vote before speaking.

“All in favour of that idea, raise your hoof.” Scootaloo said, which was met with everypony in the group raising their hooves.

“Motion approved. Actually, we could do everything together!” Scootaloo said excitedly as Phoenix began to walk away, feeling nothing but pride for the girls. Especially the Crusaders.

The weekend seemed to blur until finally, the day of the talent show arrived. Phoenix assisted in setting the stage and the whole show up. He sat at the main desk as he allowed each group to sign up for their time slot in the show. Eventually, he saw a group of six fillies approach the desk.

“Hi, Mr Fortesque. We’re here.” Sweetie Belle said for the group.

“Hello, girls. It seems you’re the final act. May I ask what it is?” Phoenix asked with a kind smile.

“Well, we’re all singin’ a song that Sweetie wrote and dancin’ a routine that Scootaloo designed.” Apple Bloom explained. Phoenix was a little surprised.

“I thought you were all going to chip in. What’s the song about?” Phoenix commented.

“Well, we were, but the lyrics that Sweetie came up with were better than anything we had. She agreed that she would write the song.” Silver replied.

“After seeing that our group was made up of different types of ponies, it’s about how ponies should treat each other equally.” Sweetie explained.

‘And with that, my faith in ponykind was just restored.’ Phoenix thought.

“That sounds great, girls. Best of luck.” Phoenix said with a smile. The girls continued to walk backstage as Phoenix walked to the judge’s desk in front of the stage. Act after act, Phoenix and Cheerilee marked down their scores and introduce the next one. Finally, Cheerilee introduced the final act. Sweetie Belle walked out to centre stage and stood motionless until a loud, fast beat blasted from the speakers.


You can't stop an avalanche 
As it races down the hill 
You can try to stop the seasons, girl
But ya know you never will 
And you can try to stop my dancin' feet

But I just cannot stand still 
Cause the world keeps spinnin'
Round and ‘round 
And my heart's keeping time 
To the speed of sound 
I was lost ‘til I heard the drums 
Then I found my way


Cause you can't stop the beat

Dinky Doo galloped onto the stage and began to duet with Sweetie Belle.

Ever since this old world began 
A woman found out if she shook it
She could shake up a man 
And so I'm gonna shake and shimmy it 
The best that I can today

'Cause you can’t stop 
The motion of the ocean 
Or the sun in the sky 
You can wonder if you wanna 
But I never ask why

And if you try to hold me down 
I'm gonna spit in your eye and say 
That you can’t stop the beat!

Dinky Doo and Sweetie Belle ran to the side of the stage while Scootaloo and Silver Spoon ran to centre stage.

You can't stop a river 
As it rushes to the sea

You can try and stop the hands of time
But ya know it just can't be

And if they try to stop us, pony,
I'll call the N Double A C P
Cause the world keeps spinning 
Round and 'round (‘Round and ‘round)
And my heart's keeping time
To the speed of sound (Speed of sound)
I was lost ‘til I heard the drums 
Then I found my way

Cause you can't stop the beat

Ever since we first saw the light
A man and woman liked to shake it
On a Saturday night
And so I'm gonna shake and shimmy it 
With all my might today

'Cause you can’t stop 
The motion of the ocean 
Or the rain from above 
You can try to stop the paradise
We're dreamin' of
But you cannot stop the rhythm 
Of two hearts in love to stay 
Cause you can’t stop the beat!

Silver and Scootaloo joined Sweetie Belle and Dinky Doo on the side of the stage as Diamond Tiara took to the stage.

You can’t stop my happiness 
Cause I like the way I am 
And you just can't stop my knife and fork 
When I see some cakes and jam 
so if you don't like the way I look 
Well, I just don't give a damn!

Cause the world keeps spinning
Round and 'round 
And my heart's keeping time 
To the speed of sound 
I was lost ‘til I heard the drums 
Then I found my way

'Cause you can’t stop the beat

Ever since this old world began 
A woman found out if she shook it
She could shake up a man 
And so I'm gonna shake and shimmy it 
The best that I can today

Cause you can't stop
The motion of the ocean
Or the sun in the sky
You can wonder if you wanna
But I never ask why
And if you try to hold me down 
I'm gonna spit in your eye and say 
That you can’t stop the beat!

Diamond joined the girls before they all began to dance in exact synchronicity with hoof shuffles, stomps and a twirl or two. Apple Bloom finally emerged and prepared to sing as the music started to pick up towards a finale.

Oh oh oh
You can't stop today
As it comes speedin’ down the track
Girl, yesterday is hist'ry
And it's never coming back

'Cause tomorrow is a brand new day
And we’ll find out what we lack

'Cause the world keeps spinning
'Round and 'round 
And my heart's keeping time 
To the speed of sound 
I was lost ‘til I heard the drums 
Then I found my way 
'Cause you can’t stop the beat

Ever since we first saw the light 
A man and woman liked to shake it
On a Saturday night 
And so I'm gonna shake and shimmy it 
With all my might today
'Cause you can't stop 
The motion of the ocean 
Or the rain from above 
They can try to stop this paradise
We're dreaming of 
But you can't stop the rhythm
Of two hearts in love to stay 
You can't stop the beat!

The girls all gathered on the stage and continued to dance as they all took a respective microphone. 

Aah, aah, aah 
Aah, aah, aah 
Aah, aah, aah


And you can't stop 
The motion of the ocean 
Or the rain from above
You can try to stop the paradise
We're dreaming of 
But you cannot stop the rhythm
Of two hearts in love to stay 
'Cause you can't stop the beat
You can't stop the beat!! 
You can't stop the beat!!
You can't stop the beat!! 
You can't stop the beat!!

The girls and the audience were silent except for the deep breaths by the performers. Until Phoenix began to applaud. Followed by Cheerilee. Then Applejack. Then the rest of the crowd followed suit. The fillies bowed as they walked off of the stage. After the awards ceremony, Phoenix met up with Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash to see the girls. As they arrived, everypony was silent as the fillies were staring at three flanks.

That were no longer bare.

Apple Bloom’s flank had a symbol of a red apple with a black musical note in front of it. Sweetie Belle’s flank had a symbol of an unrolled scroll with a quill writing on it. Scootaloo’s flank had a symbol of a few horseshoe symbols in a position of dance steps. The Cutie Mark Crusaders...

...had succeeded.
> A Dog and Pony Show
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Ah don’t think Ah’ve ever been so proud! Little Bloom. Gettin’ her Cutie Mark at last!” Applejack said, her voice filled with pride. Phoenix smiled as he watched the Crusaders play, still happy from achieving their marks.

“Indeed. It makes me wonder how long it would have taken them before they’d discover it if I hadn’t told them to do each of the group’s jobs as a group.” Phoenix replied as he and Applejack sat at the cafe.

“Ah don’t wanna think about it. Ah’m just happy for them and leavin’ it at that.” Applejack stated. Phoenix nodded in agreement as his memories of the previous night returned to him.





Phoenix sat with an aura of awkwardness emitting from him as three fillies had their hooves wrapped around him with no indication of removing themselves. They had joyous smiles on their faces as their eyes were firmly shut and their faces snuggling into Phoenix’s chest, shoulder and  face.

“Aren’t you gonna stop them?” Rainbow Dash asked, holding back a laugh.

“I tried. They’re stronger than they look.” Phoenix said, unamused. The Crusaders eventually released him, gave incredibly large smiles before running to hug their respective sisters/idol. Phoenix took a moment to adjust himself before watching the Crusaders’ looks of joy as they bounced around in complete happiness. Phoenix smiled to himself in pride. Not for himself, but for them.





“Agreed. But, what do you think they’re going to do now?” Phoenix asked. Applejack simply smiled.

“That’s the beauty of it, Phoenix. Anythin’ they want.” Applejack replied. Soon enough, the rest of the girls arrived to join them. However, there was a strange absence of Rarity.

“Anyone seen our local fashionista?” Phoenix asked.

“She came by today to take Spike gem-hunting with her. Something about not having enough to fill a very important order.” Twilight answered. Phoenix nodded in understanding before everypony started to order. As everypony’s food and drinks arrived, conversation began to bloom.

“So, Rainbow, have you spoken to Hoops recently?” Phoenix asked as he quietly ate his hay fries.

“Yeah. Y’know, I was a little worried that he’d be kinda forward with his feelings, but he just treated me like a friend would. But...” Rainbow began excitedly, but ended sombrely.

“But what, sugarcube?” Applejack asked.

“...But, I could tell how much it was tearing him up inside. Why does he hang out with me if it’s just gonna hurt him?” Rainbow asked rhetorically.

“Because, it’s less painful than the alternative.” Phoenix replied.

“What do you mean?” Rainbow asked.

“Think about it. What’s worse? Seeing your crush everyday or never seeing them again?” Phoenix asked rhetorically. Rainbow was silent before nodding in understanding. Phoenix decided to try and lighten the mood again.

“So, other than that, how was he?” Phoenix asked. Rainbow seemed silently thankful for the question.

“He’s cool. I found out that he put on a fake voice when he was a bully to try to sound more annoying. His normal voice is a little smoother and a lot less annoying. He also got his mane cut so I could actually see his face.” Rainbow said amusedly. The group listened intently as Rainbow spoke and eventually the conversation continued to change topic and subject until they were ready to leave the cafe. They began to walk through town until they reached the small bridge near town hall. There, they saw Spike running towards them in a panic.

“Aaaah! Rarity-woods-jewels-dogs-hole-taken-Save her!” Spike exclaimed in a single, terrified breath. Phoenix and the girls looked at each other for a few moments as Spike hopped from one foot to the other, pointed frantically to the Valley of Gems and beginning to hyperventilate. Everypony eventually ran to the Valley of Gems with Spike still hyperventilating on Twilight’s back. After Spike explained the situation, everypony reached the valley, only to see that there wasn’t one hole like Spike said. There were dozens.

“Holy moly, that's a lotta holeys!” Pinkie stated in astonishment.

“Come on, everypony! Let's get started.” Twilight said before standing above one of the holes and calling into it. Only to have a stream of dirt shoot up, cover her face and plug the hole in the process. Everypony followed suit only to receive the same outcome. After all of the holes were filled, they decided to try and unblock them by digging. Phoenix began digging also, but he noticed that the Diamond Dogs were pulling on the girls’ tails to get them to stop. That didn’t happen to him, however. He felt large, strong paws grab his hooves. Seconds later, he was being pulled through the dirt, into the hole. A sudden pain erupted in his head as he felt a blunt strike against it. Before he fell unconscious, he saw that the hole had been left unblocked. He tried to call out, but unconsciousness took him before he could do so.

When Phoenix awoke, the pain in his head was beginning to subside. He looked around as his eyes began to readjust to the waking world, but he saw nothing but rock, torches and dirt. Until three Diamond Dogs entered the room.

“Ah, man-pony is awake.” The small dog said.

“You are right, Spot. Maybe this pony won’t be as noisy.” The large dog replied.

“Spot, Fido, silence! We must scare this pony.” The middle one said angrily.

“Yes, Rover.” Fido and Spot said shamefully. Rover moved over to Phoenix who tried to move away in disgust, but realised that he was chained to the spot.

“You are going to find gems for us.” Rover demanded. Phoenix simply spat in his face.

“You will do it! Or else.” Rover said angrily after he wiped his face clean... well, cleaner. Phoenix remained silent for a moment.

“Or else what?” Phoenix asked threateningly. Rover clearly wasn’t expecting that kind of response. Silence fell in the cell until a shrill voice cut through it like a knife from the other room. The dogs all flinched as they began to walk towards the noise. Rover then turned back to Phoenix.

“We’ll be back with something bad for you!” Rover threatened angrily. When they left, Phoenix immediately looked around for a way to escape. He found the end of the chains that constricted him were linked to a loop of metal via padlock. He activate his magic to try to pick the lock. And it worked. He stared in amazement as the chains fell limp around him, before looking towards nowhere in particular to give a deadpan look. He walked towards the door and saw that its lock was very similar to the previous one, causing Phoenix to pick it and open the door with ease.

Knowing that the dogs may have heard it open, he immediately hid in the shadows and used them to silently move towards the next room. He waited for the three dogs to leave the room and walk back towards the cell he was in, he quickly ran into the room. He saw numerous barred doors, each leading to a new room. The locks on these doors were rusty, but they were different from the ones he’d managed to pick. Phoenix was unable to tell which gate led where and how he would get through the doors.

‘Please, somepony...’ Phoenix heard a faint whisper. He looked around in frantic surprise. The whisper was somehow... different.

‘Somepony... Please, save me...’ The whisper was undeniably Rarity. He began to walk towards one of the doors, but the whisper began to get quieter. He turned to another and the whisper was the loudest it had ever been, despite it still being rather quiet. Suddenly, he heard the frantic pawsteps of three dogs running back from Phoenix’s cell. He quickly dived back into the shadows. The dogs ran into the room and unlocked the door that Phoenix was in front of last. He waited for a few minutes before they emerged again.

“Where could the man-pony be?” Spot asked.

“We check the room again. We’ll find something to lead us to him.” Rover said. Fido then stopped and sniffed the air.

“I smell a pony.” Fido said. Phoenix tried to remain calm as the other dogs sniffed as well.

“It’s probably the girl-pony.” Rover said dismissively. Spot and Fido agreed as they followed him. Rover then raised his keys to place on a little hook on his vest, only to miss and drop them. Phoenix used his magic to catch them, meaning Rover didn’t even notice that he dropped them. Phoenix waited a moment before walking to the door that Rover had locked the most recently and used the keys to open it. He slowly entered and looked around. He finally saw Rarity in the corner of the room with a large bruise on her cheek. He walked towards her and put his hoof to her shoulder. She flinched greatly and recoiled without looking at Phoenix, but her mind seemed to process that it wasn’t a paw that touched her. She looked back to see Phoenix’s smiling, dirt-covered face.

Tears streamed from Rarity’s eyes as a wide smile emerged on her face and wrapped her hooves tightly around Phoenix.

“Thank Faust, Phoenix! I’ve never been so happy to see anypony!” Rarity said as she squeezed him and deeply kissed his cheek.

“It’s alright, Rarity. We’re getting out of here.” Phoenix said as he began to walk around the room, Rarity following close behind. Phoenix unlocked one of the other doors in the room, looked inside before closing the door and locking it again. Until he looked into one and saw a faint bit of bright light at the end of the tunnel.

“That’s our best bet. Come on, we’ll go this way.” Phoenix said. Rarity nodded quickly in agreement as they walked through the tunnel. Rarity was shivering slightly as she pressed her side against Phoenix’s. Phoenix wrapped one of his hooves around her as they continued to walk. After they left the tunnel, they walked into a large cavern with mining tracks running through it. The tracks seemed sturdy, but they were built over a very large drop. Phoenix swallowed his anxiety as he saw numerous carts linked together at their end of one of the tracks. The carts were filled to the brim with many different gemstones with one empty one at the front.

“I’ll bet the dogs ride in the cart at the front with the cargo behind them to get around quicker.” Phoenix speculated.

“And that’s our way out?” Rarity asked.

“It’s a start at least. Let’s get in the front cart. We can give it a push with our magic.” The two entered the cart which was big enough to hold them both, but small enough to force them to sit in single file. It wasn’t a preferable position, but it was the only one they could do. Phoenix and Rarity used their magic to give the carts a push which gave them the momentum to travel along the tracks. In the distance, they saw another cart coming on the adjacent track with an armoured Diamond Dog in the front cart.

“Get down!” Phoenix whispered. Both of them immediately laid down to avoid being seen. The dog was moving at a fairly normal speed, but to Rarity and Phoenix it was one of the longest moment of their lives.

“Huh. Cart got loose. I get later.” The guard dog said dismissively. After he was a fair distance away, both Phoenix and Rarity released a breath they didn’t know they were holding. Rarity then looked down and realised that she was lying on top of Phoenix. Her cheeks became bright red as she got off of him quickly. Phoenix realised too, but Rarity’s reaction amused him just enough to not think about the awkwardness. The cart came to a sudden stop. Rarity and Phoenix looked around to see the entrance to the Diamond Dog’s lair and the Valley of Gems outside. Phoenix lifted the carts and pushed them quickly outside. In the distance, they saw Spike holding a fishing rod with the girls surrounding him.

“Yoo-hoo!” Rarity yelled happily. Spike and the girls looked in their direction and beamed at the sight of them. Surprisingly, Fluttershy was the fastest and wrapped her hooves around both Phoenix and Rarity. Fluttershy then noticed the bruise on Rarity’s cheek and was immediately worried, as was everypony else. She began to explain as everypony else began to pull a cart full of gems each.

“Well, after the dogs left the room the first time, I screamed and whined to get them back into my room to continue trying to manipulate them, but they left soon after I tried again. After a while, they rushed back into the room and asked where the ‘man-pony’ was. When I said that I didn’t know, the leader hit me in the face.” Rarity explained. Phoenix immediately looked guilty.

“Ah... right. Sorry, Rarity, they saw that I’d escaped and came back to your cell.” Phoenix said with shame. Rarity looked up in mock thought.

“Well, you did get us both out of there, so I think I can forgive you.” Rarity said in a faux half-hearted manner with a smile. Phoenix smiled back.

“So, where did all these carts come from?” Rainbow asked.

“Well, we escaped in them, darling. Rather awkwardly but, we managed it. These carts were simply on the back.” Rarity explained.

“But, without the gems you could have escaped quicker, without all the weight.” Twilight countered.

“True, but we would’ve stood out. The only reason we made it past a guard dog was because he thought the carts had simply come loose. If he saw just the empty one, he’d be more suspicious.” Phoenix said.

“Oh, yeah. I can’t wait to write to Princess Celestia about what you two taught me today.” Twilight said happily.

“Us?” Phoenix asked curiously.

“What did we teach you?” Rarity asked, also confused.

“Just because some ponies can’t compete with others on a physical level, it doesn’t make them weak. Sometime, it’s those ponies, that can use their wits to outshine them all.” Twilight replied.

“Mm... 'Outshine' is right. Now you have enough gems to cover Sapphire Shores' costumes.” Spike said, with a half eaten ruby in his claw and the other half in his mouth.

“Not if you eat them all, Spike.” Rarity said as she pulled the ruby from Spike’s grip. Everypony laughed all the way back to Ponyville. The girls left the carts by the boutique at Rarity’s request, but Phoenix volunteered to help her take them inside. After the last one was placed by her stage, Phoenix looked to Rarity.

“Are you sure you have enough gems for your order with Sapphire Shores?” Phoenix asked.

“Indeed, darling. Thank you for everything. Now I’ll have to make you’re suit even better to repay you.” Rarity said with a humoured smile.

“Rarity, you know you don’t have to do that.” Phoenix chuckled.

“Alright, if you insist, darling. Thank you again.” Rarity said.

“You’re welcome, Rarity. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Phoenix said with a smile as he left the boutique. Rarity watched him leave as she half lidded her eyes and sighed dreamily. Her eyes then shot open wide.

“Oh, dear.” Rarity said quietly.
> Green Isn't Your Colour
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“She’s going to want to see attitude and pizzazz.” Rarity said as she paced around the stage Fluttershy was standing on.

“A-attitude and, um... pizzazz.” Fluttershy nervously repeated.

“More light!  It has to catch the sequins just so or the whole outfit is just a disaster. Oh, and the headdress need more feathers. Pinkie Pie! More feathers! And sequins! More sequins!” Rarity continued to give orders as she made numerous adjustments to Fluttershy’s outfit with the help of Pinkie Pie and a love-struck Spike.

“Oh, this hem is completely off. PINCUSHION!” Rarity yelled as Spike leapt to her side with pins in his back. She took a few pins and shooed Spike away.

“Thank you all for helping me. I'm sorry to be so short with you, but I'm... I'm just so nervous.” Rarity said.

“Anypony would be, Rarity. We’re still here for you.” Phoenix said. Rarity’s cheeks turned slightly pink as she took in a breath and exhaled slowly.

“I suppose you’re right. Thank you, Phoenix. Would you be a dear and get my maroon thread from my workroom? It should be by the large mirror.” Rarity requested.

“Sure. I’ll be right back.” Phoenix said as he walked up the stairs and towards Rarity’s workroom. He looked around for a minute before finding the thread and returning to the shop section. Phoenix began to hear a voice that he was unfamiliar with in the room. As he entered, he saw a mare in an eye-catching dress that covered her Cutie Mark and pink goggles that covered her eyes completely. Her coat was cyan and her mane and tail were crystal white.

“Yes. Really. And I, Photo Finish, am going to help her to shine all over Eqvestria. Tomorrow a photo shoot in zhe park.” Photo Finish said dramatically.

“Hello, Ms Finish.” Phoenix said calmly. She looked to Phoenix and the colour instantly drained from her face.

“You...” Photo Finish whispered. She seemed to be frozen to the spot. Nopony dared to move as she watched Phoenix’s every move before motioning her crew to leave and for Phoenix to follow her. As they left the boutique, Photo and Phoenix walked into the alley near Carousel Boutique.

“Are you here to collect my husband’s debt?” Photo asked uncharacteristically timidly. While Photo’s face showed nothing but fear, Phoenix’s showed nothing but confusion.

“No, Ms Finish. Your husband’s debt to me has already been paid.” Phoenix replied.

“Zhen, vhy does he continue to watch zhe phone in fear?” Photo asked. Phoenix thought for a moment.

“Maybe it’s because I didn’t ask for much. I think he’s just afraid I’ll come knocking on his door one day.” Phoenix said.

“Vhat do you zhink vill convince him?” Photo asked.

“...I don’t know.” Phoenix replied. Silence fell between them until Photo broke it.

“Vhat if I did a favour for you? Maybe zhat would convince him.” Photo said.

“Hmm... It might. But, I don’t want anything from you.” Phoenix said softly.

“Vell... Just... Zhink about it... Please.” Photo said as she began to walk away.

“Don’t worry, Ms Finish. If I can’t think of anything, I’ll talk to Hoity about it.” Phoenix called after her as he smiled softly. She stopped for a moment and looked back with a small smile of her own before continuing to walk. Phoenix returned to the boutique as the girls were leaving. Phoenix joined them and they offered Rarity the opportunity to celebrate with them, but she refused, wanting to focus on creating more outfits for Fluttershy to model for Photo Finish. After the small celebration at Sugarcube Corner, Phoenix walked home with only one thought on his mind. 

His situation with Photo Finish.

He pushed the thought from his mind as he turned in for the night. The next few days rolled by and throughout it, everypony discovered that Photo wasn’t referring to Rarity when she was talking about her star. She was referring to Fluttershy, whom was drafted as Photo Finish’s new model. Phoenix was standing with Applejack at her stall and had Fluttershy’s face plastered on the merchandise.

“What’s with the Flutter-tisement?” Phoenix asked.

“Well, Ah’m just makin’ the best of a situation. Somepony saw Fluttershy buyin’ from me and they went straight up to me an’ asked if Fluttershy likes the stuff Ah sell. Next thing Ah know, Ah’m bein’ asked to put ‘Fluttershy approved’ on the stall.” Applejack replied.

“I can’t imagine that Fluttershy likes any of the attention.” Phoenix said.

“Ah know, sugarcube. But, what can ya do?” Applejack replied. Apple Bloom ran up to the two of them with a sheet of paper in her mouth.

“Applejack! Sweetie Belle wrote us a little song to help advertisin’!” Apple Bloom said excitedly.

“Well, I think I speak for your sister as well when I say that you should give it a try right now.” Phoenix said with a caring smile as Applejack nodded in agreement. Apple Bloom set the paper down, took a quick read and cleared her throat.


Eat Apple treats, all night and day,
They’ll make you laugh and give a yay~
They’re great for you and me,
You’ll want to kiss a tree,
Eat Apple treats, all night and day,
They’ll make you laugh and give a yay~
They’re great for you and me,
You’ll want to kiss a tree.


Apple Bloom continued to repeat the small song, but true to its purpose, more ponies were coming to the stall. Phoenix and Applejack smiled at the excited little filly until Phoenix bade them both farewell. As he made his way through town square, he saw Fluttershy wearing a large hat and sunglasses as a form of disguise. Why she didn’t bother to cover the rest of her body or even her Cutie Mark, he didn’t know. Knowing the last thing she wanted was attention, Phoenix subtly approached her and got her attention.

“Fluttershy, what are you doing here?” Phoenix asked quietly. Fluttershy jumped at Phoenix voice, but calmed herself quickly.

“I still want to live my life normally, but I keep getting followed by fans.” Fluttershy replied, stress clear in her voice.

“Yeah, I thought you wouldn’t be liking the attention.” Phoenix said sympathetically.

“Oh, Phoenix, I hate being a model.” Phoenix was surprised that Fluttershy would use such a strong word like ‘hate’.

“I’m sure Photo would understand if you wanted to quit.” Phoenix said.

“Oh, no. I couldn’t do that to Rarity.” Fluttershy replied.

“Rarity?”

“Yes. She’s the one who pushed me to be a model in the first place. Quitting would just upset her. Besides, I don’t think Photo Finish would let me quit anyway.”

“If you told Rarity the truth she would definitely understand.”

“...Do you think so?” Fluttershy asked weakly.

“Take it from a professional liar, Fluttershy. The truth is always brought to light, regardless. If you tell her the truth, she’ll understand. And... I think I know a way to convince Photo Finish to let you quit.” Phoenix replied with a smile. Fluttershy slowly smiled back before hugging the stallion. They went their separate ways as Fluttershy went to Carousel Boutique and Phoenix went to Photo Finish’s temporary studio. As he walked in, the repellent smell of excessive makeup assaulted his nasal passages. He looked around to see some ponies giving him odd looks until he saw Photo Finish overlooking a photo shoot. He walked over to her and tapped her on the shoulder. She turned around and for a moment looked like she was going to have a heart attack.

“Can I help you?” Photo asked as she calmed down.

“Is the offer to do me a favour still valid?” Phoenix asked politely.

“Ja. Have you thought of something?” Photo replied.

“Yes. I’d like you to let Fluttershy quit from being a model.” Phoenix replied calmly.

“Vhat?!”

“I’m guessing you’re not taking to the idea.” Phoenix replied somewhat sarcastically.

“Flootershy is vone of zhe best models zhat I have. Vhy vould she vant to leave?” Photo asked.

“It’s just getting to her. She hates crowds, attention and being separated from her friends. It’s tearing her apart. If not for me, please... do it for her.” Phoenix softly pleaded. Photo remained silent for a moment.

“Very vell. If she really isn’t happy doing zhis, I won’t force her.” Photo said with a hint of sadness in her voice.

“She wasn’t unhappy with you, specifically. She just didn’t like being a model. It’s just not who she is.” Phoenix comforted.

“Danke.” Photo replied in Germane.

“Maybe now you can convince Hoity that both of you aren’t indebted to me anymore.” Phoenix said. Photo chuckled before nodding happily. The two parted and Phoenix set out to find Fluttershy. He found her in the spa sitting in the sauna with Rarity. When she spotted him, she stood up and walked towards him. She kept her distance, as she was sweating a little but still gave him her attention.

“How did it go?” Fluttershy asked.

“I could ask you the same thing.” Phoenix replied cheekily.

“Apparently, Rarity was jealous and wanted me to stop, but didn’t say anything because she felt bad and thought I loved being a model. So, we were in the same boat about me wanting to quit.” Fluttershy explained.

“Well, I talked to Photo Finish and you’re off the hook.” Phoenix said.

“Really? Thank goodness. Oh, I hope she didn’t take it too hard.” Fluttershy said timidly.

“Don’t worry. She felt better when I told her that it was the modelling that was getting you down, rather than her.” Phoenix explained.

“Oh, good. Thank you, Phoenix. Would you like to join us?” Fluttershy offered. Phoenix thought for a moment before looking towards Fluttershy and saw the dreaded puppy dog eyes.

“Heh. Why not?” Phoenix said before paying the spa ponies and joining the girls.
> Over A Barrel
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Careful. CAREFUL!!” Applejack screamed nervously.

“AJ, you’re not helping.” Phoenix replied calmly as he held the apple tree in his magic and slowly walked with it to the train station with Applejack walking beside him.

“Phoenix, Ah swear, if anythin’ happens to Bloomberg-.” Applejack began.

“Applejack, if you wanted somepony who’s better with magic to do this, you should have gotten Twilight to do it.” Phoenix said. Applejack looked away for a moment as she blushed lightly.

“Ah... Ah didn’t wanna bother her with this, that’s all.” Applejack nervously replied.

“But, you didn’t mind bothering me?” Phoenix replied with a wry smile. Applejack’s blush intensified as she walked at a quicker pace. Phoenix’s cheeks took on a slight red hue as he chuckled and matched her pace. When they reached the train that they’d personally hired, Applejack watched Phoenix delicately place Bloomberg in the last train car. The rest of the girls and Spike arrived as Phoenix and Applejack finished placing Bloomberg in a bed and tucking it in. Applejack then took out a book and began to read it aloud to Bloomberg as Phoenix backed away slowly with an uneasy look on his face.

He walked into the next train car just as the train began to move. He walked in to see the rest of the girls and Spike looking at what they would be using as beds.

“Ugh... This is awfully cramped.” Rarity said with a hint of disdain for the situation.

“As long as none of you are claustrophobic, we should be fine.” Phoenix replied to which everypony shook their head to answer him.

“Oh, good. Just me, then.” Phoenix said with a smile. Twilight looked around at the beds before turning back to everypony.

“Uh... Guys? There aren’t enough beds for all of us.” Twilight said uneasily. Everypony looked around to discover that she was right.

“Two of us could share a bed.” Pinkie speculated.

“No, I’ve got an idea. Somepony needs to guard Bloomberg during the journey. I’ll just sleep in the end car.” Phoenix said.

“You sure, Nick?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yeah, don’t worry about me. What’s the worst that could happen?” Phoenix replied. Everypony began to settle in as the train chugged along the track. Night fell as the girls and Phoenix were conversing as Spike and Rarity tried to sleep.

“Well, ladies, I’m going to the end car to check on Bloomberg and get some shut-eye.” Phoenix announced softly, trying to avoid waking Rarity and Spike.

“You sure, Phoenix? You’re more than welcome to sleep in here.” Applejack said with concern. Phoenix let out a lone, quiet chuckle before turning back to her with a very faint blush and a smirk.

“Is that an invitation, AJ? My, my. If only you’re family knew how naughty you are.” Phoenix said as he began to laugh quietly along with everypony else laughing louder. Applejack’s face became bright red as she buried her face into her pillow. Phoenix walked out and entered the end car. He saw Bloomberg still motionless in the bed. Phoenix approached it and sat in front of it.

“She loves you, you know? Applejack, I mean. She treats you like her own child. That still counts as love, doesn’t it?” Phoenix said to the tree. It didn’t respond.

Bloomberg was always taught not to talk to strangers.

“...I wonder what it’s like... to be loved by her. Heh. I suppose I’ll never know.” Phoenix chuckled humourlessly as tears began to stream down his cheeks.

“Look at me, I’m talking to a tree like a lovesick schoolcolt. Funny how my feelings changed so drastically in practically no time at all, isn’t it? ...Then again... She went from hating me to befriending me in such a small amount of time... You don’t think she could...?” Phoenix sighed as the tears continued to stream.

“Who am I kidding, Bloomberg? Who could love me? If they never loved me... why should Applejack?” Phoenix cried in the presence of the tree.

“You’ll have to keep this secret, Bloomberg, okay? And that includes you too, Spike.” Phoenix said a little louder. A startled voice came from the doorway. Spike walked into the car as Phoenix wiped his eyes and turned to him.

“How much did you hear?” Phoenix asked.

“A-all of it.” Spike replied nervously. Phoenix sighed.

“Spike... Normally, I threaten those who find out my secrets... But...” Phoenix’s eyes began to water again as he slowly approached Spike.

“I’m pleading to you, Spike. Please, don’t tell anypony about this. If Applejack found out, she’d disown me, even as an acquaintance. I don’t know if I could bear that.” Phoenix pleaded softly. Spike stood with his mouth agape. He’d never seen Phoenix look so open. So...

Vulnerable.

Spike nodded and promised to keep the secret, causing Phoenix to thank him and wrap him in a grateful hug. Unbeknownst to Phoenix, Applejack was standing by the door, face flushed, hoof on her heart and breathing slightly erratically.

‘He... He loves me?! He loves me. He loves me!’ Applejack thought with an excited smile on her face. Night rolled by as Spike slept in the same bed as Bloomberg and Phoenix watched the night roll by from the window. Earlier in the night, Applejack stumbled back into the train car with a blissful look on her face. The girls asked why she was so happy, but her lack of reaction let them know that she was drowning them out or just wasn’t listening. Sleep finally took Phoenix as he dreamt of the love he wanted.

The love he could never have.

As morning came, a commotion jolted Phoenix awake. He looked to the windows to see a herd of buffalo near the train. Phoenix didn’t know if they had hostile intent, but he knew he couldn’t take the risk. He ran to Spike and shook him awake.

“H...huh? Phoenix? What’s... going on?” Spike asked sleepily.

“No time to explain. We need to regroup with the girls.” Phoenix replied. The train car began to shake from side to side as the bed followed suit. Spike immediately forgot his drowsiness and jumped to attention. They tried to stabilise themselves as they walked uneasily towards the door. Phoenix pulled Spike close to him and used his magic to open the door. A strong breeze rushed through the door due to the momentum of the train’s speed. Phoenix refocused and opened the door in the adjacent car with his magic and kept Spike steady.

“I’m going to throw you across, Spike. Just stay calm. I’m not going to let you get hurt.” Phoenix said to Spike over the harsh winds. Spike nodded as he braced himself. Phoenix threw him across the gap between the cars and guided him through the doorway with his magic. Once he was sure that Spike was safe, Phoenix prepared to jump as well, but a calf jumped between the gap and detached the cars. Phoenix shut the car’s door before the calf could turn around. He looked out of the window of the door to see that the buffalo were running alongside the car as its distance from the rest of the train got larger. He looked to the car he threw Spike to and saw Spike and the girls looking at him in complete panic. Soon enough, the train was out of sight and the car came to complete stop.

The door opened and Phoenix stood rigid in front of Bloomberg. The buffalo were confused at first, but they became looks of anger when they saw him.

“Shit.” Phoenix said under his breath. The buffalo grabbed him and pulled him from the train car and threw him into the centre of the tribe. Phoenix looked up to see a buffalo that was bigger than the others. The chief of the tribe.

“Why did you bring this pony here?” The chief said, his voice shaking the ground.

“He was in the train car. Clearly an Appleloosian spy!” One of the buffalo accused. Phoenix looked around to see that he was surrounded by the hateful scowls of many buffalo.

“He does not resemble the Appleloosians.” The chief debated.

“If I may speak, sir. I’m not an Appl-.” Phoenix was cut off by a buffalo striking him in the back of the head, sending him to the ground.

“Silence, pony devil!” The buffalo in question yelled. The rest of the buffalo didn’t look as confident in their disdain for Phoenix as before. Phoenix coughed and blood emerged from his mouth as he did so as he rose back to his hooves.

“Strong. Surprising.” Phoenix said. The buffalo struck him to the ground again as he gave him a glare.

“What is surprising about it?!” The buffalo roared. Phoenix let out a bloodied, weak laugh.

“Well... you know what they say about hoof-size.” Phoenix said weakly. The buffalo charged Phoenix and planted him into the ground. The chief and a few other buffalo finally pulled the attacker off of Phoenix. Phoenix coughed and wheezed as he desperately tried to cling onto life. The rest of the buffalo knew in that moment, that what they had done was not honourable, ethical or respectful to their ancestors.

“Chief, we don’t have the means to save him. We have to get him to the ponies!” The calf from the train said urgently. Despite his obvious disliking of Phoenix, the chief also took on the sense of urgency.

“Agreed. We must get him to Appleloosa.” The chief boomed as a buffalo placed Phoenix on the chief’s back. They moved as quickly as they could without causing Phoenix’s body any further trauma. As they arrived in the town, several ponies ran for their homes and locked the doors. Chief Thunderhooves ignored them until he saw a group of mares and a stallion in the distance.

“They’re... my friends... You can... trust them.” Phoenix said weakly. Chief Thunderhooves and Little Strongheart approached the ponies. They looked towards the approaching buffalo and were ready for a fight before seeing the bloodied, beaten stallion on the chief’s back. The chief delicately placed Phoenix on the ground and everypony gathered around him. Twilight immediately began to cast a healing spell on him.

“Phoenix, can you tell me what’s broken?” Twilight asked, trying to remain calm.

“Just my spine... a few ribs... maybe everything else.” Phoenix replied weakly. Both Chief Thunderhooves and Little Strongheart looked as concerned as everypony else. Applejack’s teary eyes darkened as she looked to the buffalo intently and marched towards them.

“What. The HELL! Happened?!” Applejack demanded. The buffalo recoiled for a second, but they understood her reaction.

“When we discovered him in the train car, we tried to question him, but one of our own attacked him. We stopped him, but not fast enough to prevent his current state.” The chief said with a hint of shame.

“We knew that we wouldn’t be able to help him, so we brought him here as quickly as we could.” Little Strongheart continued. Applejack’s scowl didn’t lessen.

“It’s true... AJ... If it wasn’t for them... I’d be dead...” Phoenix said in their defense, feeling the effects of the healing spell. Applejack immediately kneeled by Phoenix as he gave her a weak, tired smile. She took his hoof and placed it on her cheek as she gave him a teary smile. After a few minutes, Phoenix was rid of his injuries and was back on his hooves.

“Thanks, Twilight. And thank you two. What are your names?” Phoenix said to Twilight and then the buffalo.

“My name is Little Strongheart and this is Chief Thunderhooves.” Little Strongheart introduced herself and the chief.

“I assumed you were the chief of the tribe. Can you please tell me why you hijacked the train car?” Phoenix asked.

“We only wanted the tree. It was to send a message to the Appleloosians.” Little Strongheart said innocently. Braeburn walked forward to them.

“What message is that?” Braeburn asked, no sign of aggression in his voice.

“Your people planted an orchard on our sacred stampeding grounds. We cannot fulfil our most important traditions.” Chief Thunderhooves said, showing the stallion the same lack of hostility that Braeburn had shown him.

“Well, shoot. We didn’t know that. But, we can’t get rid of the trees. We’ll lose our main source of food and exports.” Braeburn said sympathetically, seeing that they both had good reasons to use the land.

“Can’t you plant the trees elsewhere?” Twilight asked Braeburn.

“Nope. That land is the only flat land ‘round these parts. There’s no other fertile land within our reach.” Braeburn said, somewhat guiltily about the situation.

“Can’t you simply replant some of the trees and create a path for the buffalo? They could make it through the town as it literally has a path going through it.” Phoenix said. Braeburn looked down in thought as the buffalo were watching him intently, hopeful for an answer.

“Yeah... Yeah, Ah think we can do that! Ah’ll have to take it up with the sheriff, but as long as we can avoid any kinda dispute over this, I’m sure he’ll go along with it.” Braeburn said cheerfully. Braeburn and Chief Thunderhooves walked towards the prison where Sheriff Silverstar’s office was. Twilight, Spike, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie accompanied them, while Pinkie complained about ‘not getting a musical number in this episode’. Phoenix asked Applejack to accompany him as he talked to Little Strongheart.

“Little Strongheart, do you know where the tree in the train car is?” Phoenix asked.

“We haven’t touched the train car, so it should still be there.” Little Strongheart explained. Relief filled Applejack as the three walked towards the tribe to retrieve Bloomberg. It took a few minutes for Little Strongheart to convince the rest of the tribe of the ponies’ innocence and the compromise that the sheriff and the chief were discussing. History repeated itself with Phoenix carrying Bloomberg in his magic and Applejack walking by him with a look of nervous horror on her face.

“Come on, Phoenix, you’re so close. STEADY!” Applejack instructed.

“AJ, I swear to Faust...” Phoenix said with annoyance. Little Strongheart chuckled.

“Maybe you two should work on your marriage.” Little Strongheart said with innocent amusement. Both ponies blushed profusely.

“W-w-we’re not married, S-Strongheart.” Applejack said nervously.

“Yeah, have you seen her? She could do so much better.” Phoenix said as he chuckled at his own joke. Applejack stopped in her tracks as Phoenix continued to Bloomberg’s designated plant point. In that moment, Applejack realised why Phoenix had never mentioned anything about his feelings. He truly believed he wasn’t good enough for her.

‘Well, Ah’m sure as hay gonna change that.’ Applejack thought with determination as she caught up with the stallion and the calf.
> A Bird in The Hoof
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix yawned as his alarm sounded, waking him. He normally wouldn’t do that on his days off, but there was an event scheduled for that morning at Sugarcube Corner. Princess Celestia was coming for a visit. Phoenix slammed his alarm with his hoof, silencing it before making himself presentable with his grey suit and his black fedora. He emerged from his house and locked the door before beginning his walk to Sugarcube Corner. As he arrived, there were two royal guards stationed by the sides of the entrance. Phoenix walked towards the door, but was blocked by the guards blocking his way with their wings.

“Halt.” One guard ordered.

“Who goes there?” The other questioned aggressively.

“Phoenix Fortesque.” Phoenix replied levelly.

“What is your business here?”

“I’m here to see Princess Celestia.”

“For what purpose?” The guard asked suspiciously.

“I’m here to assassinate her. Is this wrong?” Phoenix joked as he gestured to his attire. Before the guards could question further, Twilight walked up behind the guards.

“Phoenix, you’re here! He’s on the list.” Twilight said, causing the guards to return to their original positions and expressions. Phoenix followed Twilight inside as she returned to wear Celestia was and began to pace. Phoenix noticed that: Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack and himself were the only ponies form their group of friends that were present. Phoenix walked towards Applejack and took a seat next to her as she began to tie a napkin around her neck.

“Morning, Applejack.” Phoenix greeted politely with a slight pink tint to his cheeks. Applejack’s eyes seemed to light up at the sight of him.

“Howdy, Phoenix! When’d’ya get here?” Applejack asked happily. Her cheek also took on a minor pink hue as she spoke.

“I just arrived. What about you? Punctual as always?” Phoenix asked with a hint of fondness.

“Sure as sugar, Ah was. Excited to see the Princess?” Applejack replied.

“I suppose. I think I’m more excited to see you, honestly.” Phoenix said with a deeper blush.

“...Ah wish you’d stop usin’ that silver tongue o’ yours.” Applejack mumbled as her blush began to spread across her face.

“Come on, where’s the fun in that?” Phoenix replied. Applejack giggled before stopping and shyly turning to Phoenix. Her face took on a serious expression before she spoke.

“...Say, Phoenix... Ah’ve been thinkin’ for a while and... Ah know how you feel about me.” Applejack admitted. The colour drained from Phoenix’s face. This was it. He knew what was coming next.

“Oh... Um... Look, AJ, I’m sorry. I... I just...” Phoenix couldn’t think of anything to say, so he simply remained silent and waited for the inevitable.

“That bein’ said... Ah kinda... feel the same way.” Applejack said softly and shyly.

‘...What did she just say?’ Phoenix thought in complete disbelief.

“So... Do you wanna... be mah boyfriend?” Applejack asked uneasily. Phoenix’s eyes grew wide, his cheeks turned red and his heart flared in his chest.

“A... boyfriend...? ...Your boyfriend?” Phoenix asked breathlessly.

“Yeah... If you want to, that is.” Applejack replied in a Fluttershy-like manner. Applejack was surprised to see Phoenix so flustered. It wasn’t a sight that matched her image of the level-headed stallion. After he stumbled over his words a few times, he exhaled and looked at her.

“AJ, my heart and my head are telling me to say two very different things.” Phoenix said weakly.

“What’s your head sayin’?” Applejack hesitantly asked.

“That you can do so much better and I shouldn’t get in the way of that.” Phoenix said quietly.

“...And... your heart?” Applejack asked with even more hesitance as she began to think that trying was becoming fruitless.

“...That this is the situation that I’ve wanted and I’d be a fool to let it go.” Phoenix said, his voice breaking. Applejack’s heart began to fill with hope once more as she looked back at him. Phoenix was clearly at war with himself. His negativity and his almost altruistic care for his friends were clashing with his desire for happiness and the love that he felt for Applejack.

“Which... Which one’re you gonna listen to?” Applejack asked, her voice almost like a squeak.

“...Fuck my head. Applejack... I’d... I’d love to be your boyfriend. If you’re willing to have me.” Phoenix said through the lump in his throat. Silence fell. Neither on them moved. Applejack suddenly threw her forelegs around Phoenix’s neck and held on like there was no tomorrow.

“A-AJ? Are you alright?” Phoenix asked worriedly as she clung to him.

“Yeah. Yeah, Phoenix, Ah am. Things couldn’t be better than they are right now!” Applejack said with tears pouring down her face. Phoenix blushed at the thought of what he was about to do, but he pushed the thoughts aside. He moved his head back, then forward, kissing Applejack on the forehead. She nuzzled into his neck until she saw Rarity carefully walk in, trying to avoid damaging her dress for the upcoming gala.

“Sorry, Phoenix. But, Ah’ve gotta tell Rarity somethin’. That okay?” Applejack asked.

“Of course it is. I’d actually like to talk to the Princess myself.” Phoenix said as they separated from each other and walk in opposite directions. Before both of them looking back, blushing and looking away with shy smiles. Phoenix began to walk towards Celestia’s table, but looked behind him when he heard Rarity cheering giddily and saw that she was seemingly squeezing the life out of Applejack. He chuckled lightly before turning to Celestia and Twilight who both had confused looks on their faces. Pinkie joined them after hearing the commotion and showed her confusion as well.

“What’s up with Rarity?” Pinkie asked. Phoenix’s shy blush returned to his face before answering.

“I think that Applejack told her the news and Rarity is uh... happy to hear it.” Phoenix said as he rubbed the back of his head with his hoof.

“What news, Phoenix?” Twilight asked.

“Applejack and I are... a couple now.” As the words left Phoenix’s mouth, Pinkie practically tackled him to the ground and began giving him a bone crushing hug. Twilight was beaming at him, while Celestia was giving him a pleasant smile.

“That’s so great, Phoenix!” Twilight exclaimed happily.

“Thanks. If you two don’t mind, I’d like to speak to Celestia.” Phoenix said politely.

“Princess Celestia.” Twilight corrected seemingly out of habit.

“Sure! C’mon, Twilight! Let’s go talk to Applejack!” Pinkie said excitedly as she grabbed Twilight’s hoof and pulled her over to Applejack and Rarity. Phoenix’s smile left his face as he sat down opposite Celestia.

“Is there a problem, Phoenix?” Celestia asked a little uneasily, due to the look on his face.

“Celestia, I think there’s something wrong with me.” Phoenix answered seriously.

“What do you mean?” Celestia asked, a little surprised that he was using her name and not her title.

“Something happened when Rarity and I were taken prisoner by the Diamond Dogs a week or so ago. When I escaped, I started looking for her. But, before I did, I heard her voice. It was like she was speaking to me without  being in the same room as me. I assumed she merely called out and I heard her, but when I told her that if she hadn’t called out, I wouldn’t have found her; she said she didn’t call out at all.” Phoenix explained. He noticed a slight change in Celestia’s eyes for a moment as he explained. It was slight, but it was there.

“I wouldn’t worry about it, Phoenix. I don’t know what’s going on, but I will find out.” Celestia replied. Before Phoenix could continue the conversation, Twilight returned to them with Fluttershy by her side. Fluttershy beamed slightly at Phoenix when she saw him.

“I heard the news about you and Applejack. I-I just wanted to say: congratulations.” Fluttershy said sincerely.

“Thank you, Fluttershy. Did you two want to speak to Celestia? We’ve already finished our conversation.” Phoenix asked kindly.

“Princess Celestia. Yeah, we’d like to speak to her, if you’re both fine with it.” Twilight said. Phoenix nodded as he stood and walked away from the table. Whether he knew it or not, he was walking towards Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie Pie. When they saw him, they all smiled at him.

“Hello there, darling. How has your day been today?” Rarity asked giddily, knowing full well what had happened.

“Well, I was having a good day, but it was upgraded to ‘incredible’ a few minutes ago.” Phoenix said as his gaze met Applejack’s. Her face turned completely red as she tried to look angry, but everypony could see the smile she was trying to force from her face.

“Oh my, Phoenix. Who knew you were such a sweet talker?” Rarity said amusedly.

“Ah did. His silver tongue annoys me sometimes.” Applejack said.

“Your cheeks say otherwise, darling.” Rarity said cheekily. Applejack continued to pout as Phoenix chuckled and put one foreleg around her. The group, including Applejack laughed until Celestia left suddenly.

“Where’s she going?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“She said that the mayor asked for an audience with her.” Twilight said as she joined the group.

“Oh, well. What do you guys wanna do now?” Rainbow Dash asked as she also joined them.

“We could all go to the spa.” Rarity offered.

“Rarity, you always want to go to the spa.” Twilight said with amusement.

“True, but now we can all go together. Fluttershy and I usually go together, but I think we should all go.” Rarity said.

“That sounds like it could be enjoyable. I’m in.” Twilight said, causing everypony to agree.

“Alright, but I’m not letting anypony touch me.” Rainbow Dash said.

“Is that your dating life in a nutshell?” Phoenix said, causing Pinkie to fall to the ground in a fit of laughter and Rainbow to pout in annoyance.

“Wait. Where is Fluttershy?” Rarity asked. Everypony looked around the room, but saw no trace of her.

“Maybe she went home.” Applejack said.

“I’ll go check and meet you all at the spa.” Twilight offered as she began to walk away.

“I’m going to remove this dress before it gets ruined.” Rarity said as she carefully began to walk back to the boutique.

“You guys realise that the only ponies who were interested in goin’ to the spa just left?” Applejack said, which caused: Pinkie, Rainbow and Phoenix the nod in agreement. Despite that, they all set off and eventually arrived at the spa. The group entered and sat down in the waiting room as they somewhat nervously looked around. After a few minutes later, a now dress-less Rarity burst through the door, breathing slightly heavily.

“Sorry, everypony. What treatment should we go with?” Rarity asked as she walked to the group.

“What do you normally get when you come here, Rarity?” Phoenix asked.

“I normally get what I call ‘the usual’, which is everything. But, I don’t think I could afford all of us getting it.” Rarity said a little sulkily. Phoenix stepped forward.

“Rarity, I bankrupt corrupt casinos in my spare time. I can pay for this.” Phoenix said with a smile. Everypony eventually agreed and accepted Phoenix’s offer to pay. They were given opportunities to try everything that interested them. They decided to go in the order that Rarity usually does and just skip what they didn’t want to do. Nearly an hour later, the group left the spa and walked to the town square and began to converse.

“Phoenix, I must know. Why didn’t you let Aloe or Lotus massage you?” Rarity asked.

“The same reason you wouldn’t let a stallion you don’t know massage you.” Phoenix replied. Rarity’s cheeks turned slightly pink as she thought what Phoenix said through.

“Oh... right. Yes, that makes sense.” Rarity said as Applejack turned to Phoenix.

“So you’d let a mare you do know massage you?” Applejack asked curiously. Phoenix thought for a moment before responding.

“I suppose. It would definitely be better than letting a mare I don’t know do it. Why?” Phoenix replied. Applejack turned around and slowly ran her tail under Phoenix’s chin seductively, causing Phoenix’s face to practically glow bright red.

“No reason. Just good to know.” Applejack replied with half-lidded eyes and a wry smile. Phoenix stared for a moment before letting out a single chuckle before looking to the sky with a smile.

“I think I’m in love.” Phoenix said amusedly to himself before joining the girls at the fountain in the middle of town square. Their activities were interrupted by Twilight and Fluttershy rushing towards them and searching frantically for something.

“Girls, what are you looking for?” Phoenix asked.

“We’re looking for th-.” Fluttershy began but was cut off by another voice.

“The Princess’ pet bird!” A guard shouted as he and his colleague were looking to the top of the fountain where a sad excuse for a bird was overdramatically dying before pitching itself off of the fountain.

“I’ll catch you!” Fluttershy announced as she went to catch the bird, but Phoenix stopped her with his hoof. She looked to him in shock, but Phoenix pointed to the bird.

Just as it spontaneously combusted.

Everypony watched in horror as the ashes fell to the ground and Fluttershy began to tear up. However, Phoenix was looking around in confusion.

“What’re you all so shocked about?” Phoenix asked.

“Didn’t you see?! The bird just burst into freakin’ flames!” Rainbow yelled.

“Yes. Your point?” Phoenix asked as he walked towards the ashes and Celestia arrived.

“Birds don’t normally burst into flames, Phoenix! Are you drunk?” Twilight replied.

“Even you, Twilight? Don’t you know what kind of bird this is?” Phoenix asked.

“Uh... No.” Twilight said. Phoenix sighed as he walked up to the pile of ash and turned back to his little audience.

“I know they’re not the most common birds, but I’m surprised you don’t know what I’m named after.” Phoenix mumbled.

“What is going on here? Twilight?” Celestia questioned.

“Yes, your Majesty, there's been a terrible accident.” Twilight said sadly.

“It's all my fault.” Fluttershy admitted.

“No, Princess. Fluttershy didn't know any better. It was my fault.” Twilight corrected.

“I'm the one who did it.” Fluttershy argued.

“But you were only trying to help.”

“Some help I was.”

“Will ya let me do this? She'll go easier on me.”

“But it's my fault!”

“No, it's my fault!”

“No, it's my fault! Wait, what are we talking about?” Pinkie blurted out before returning to the confused state that everypony seemed to be in.

“Thanks for trying to protect me, Twilight, but... Princess Celestia, I'm the one who took your pet bird. I really was only trying to help the poor little thing. Then I was gonna bring it right back to you, honest. So, if you wanna banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to, then that's what I deserve.” Fluttershy said sombrely as Celestia kneeled her head to the ashes.

“Oh, stop fooling around, Philomena. You're scaring everypony.” Celestia said playfully as the ashes seemed to spring into life and swirl in the sky before transforming into a majestic bird with feathers the resembled flames. Everypony watched the creature intently as its beauty mesmerised them.

“I don’t understand! What is that thing? What happened to Philomena?” Fluttershy asked.

“This is Philomena. She's quite a sight, as I said. But nothing unusual for a phoenix. Isn't that right, Philomena?” Celestia said, causing Philomena to squawk in response.

“A... phoenix?” Fluttershy asked as her gaze went to Phoenix before returning to Philomena.

“A phoenix is a majestic and magical bird. While it appears healthy and happy most of the time, every so often it must renew itself by shedding all of its feathers and bursting into flame. Rather melodramatic, if you ask me. It then rises from the ashes, fresh as a daisy. All just a normal part of the life cycle of a phoenix.” Celestia explained.

“Wait, how did you know all that, Phoenix?” Twilight asked.

“For one thing, I’m named after them. But, the Fortesque family crest is a phoenix. My father eventually bought one. After his... passing, Ember was left with my brother, my sister and I. I had to learn these things to take care of him.” Phoenix explained. 

“Indeed.  I'm afraid mischievous little Philomena here took the occasion to have a little fun with you, Fluttershy. Say you're sorry, young lady.” Celestia ordered, to which Philomena complied.

“So... aren't you gonna banish me? Or throw me in a dungeon? Or banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to?” Fluttershy asked, bringing confused expressions to everypony.

“Of course not, my little pony. Where on Earth would you get such an idea?” Celestia asked amusedly.

“I guess I have some imagination.” Fluttershy said shyly after a quick glance in Twilight’s direction.

“Fluttershy really did do everything she could to try to take care of Philomena for you.” Twilight said to try to justify Fluttershy’s actions.

“And I do appreciate that your heart was in the right place, child. But all you had to do was ask me and I could have told you Philomena was a phoenix and saved you all this trouble.” Celestia said in a motherly tone.

“I know. I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. Next time I'll ask before taking matters into my own hooves.” Fluttershy said.

“Should I write you a letter about that lesson, Princess?” Twilight asked.

“No, that's quite all right. I think I can remember.” Celestia said with a smile. Philomena flew from Celestia’s back before dropping one of her feathers behind Fluttershy’s ears.

“It's beautiful. Thank you, Philomena. No hard feelings.” Fluttershy said kindly. Rainbow flew up to Philomena and whispered something into her ear. Philomena then proceeded to tickle Celestia’s two guards on their muzzles causing them to burst into laughter, closely followed by everypony else.





Celestia returned to Canterlot castle as the moon was rising in the sky. She returned Philomena to her perch and walked to Luna’s room. There, she saw Luna reading a small instruction manual for her new gaming console.

“Luna, can I speak to you?” Celestia asked softly. Luna raised her head and smiled.

“You needn’t ask, Celestia. What’s wrong?” Luna asked. Celestia entered to room and sat next to Luna.

“How is he?” Celestia asked.

“He’s fine. We are sorry you had to leave Ponyville just to come back here.” Luna replied.

“It’s alright, I told everypony that I was meeting the mayor. Plus, I returned in time for Philomena to renew.” Celestia replied.

“Ah. We thought she wasn’t looking well. Why do you think Cognito’s delusions returned?” Luna asked.

“...I’m not so sure they are delusions.” Celestia replied. Luna looked to her in confusion.

“Why is that?” Luna asked.

“Because, I’ve discovered another pony who can do the same thing that Cognito can.” Celestia said.

“Who is it? Who is it that can hear other ponies thoughts?” Luna asked, more alert than before. Celestia looked to her sister with eyes full of conviction.

“...Phoenix Fortesque.”
> The Cutie Mark Chronicles
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix walked across the fields of Sweet Apple Acres as he felt surprisingly giddy. Bag on his back as he walked through the trees and began to approach a part of the orchard that had baskets at the bases of the trees. His heart flared as he saw his girlfriend working away. Phoenix was a little embarrassed when he caught himself staring at her body covered in a slight layer of sweat. He shook his head quickly and began to walk towards her. She exhaled before turning and saw him approaching, causing her to beam and meet him halfway. They practically threw their hooves around each other for about a minute before letting go.

“Sorry, Ah’m a little sweaty.” Applejack apologised.

“It’s alright, Applejack. I don’t mind.” Phoenix replied with a kind smile.

“Not even the smell?” Applejack asked. Phoenix simply looked into her eyes and gave a serene smile.

“What smell?” Phoenix commented and caused Applejack to giggle lightly.

“So, what’re you doin’ here?” Applejack asked. Phoenix responded by reaching into his bag and revealing a bouquet of sunflowers.

“I, uh... bought you these.” Phoenix said shyly as he handed them over to her.

“Oh! Wow. What’s the occasion?” Applejack asked in surprise. Phoenix simply rubbed the back of his head with his hoof.

“No occasion. I just, uh... don’t know what boyfriends and girlfriends do exactly, so I just thought  I’d get you a bouquet of your favourite flower.” Phoenix explained awkwardly. Applejack sniffed the flowers before looking back to him.

“How’d you know that they’re mah fav’rite?” Applejack asked. Phoenix’s blush deepened at the question.

“I... may or may not have... asked Apple Bloom what it was.” Phoenix admitted. Applejack looked a little uncomfortable for a moment.

“You didn’t tell her that you were gettin’ ‘em for me, didja?” Applejack asked nervously.

“No. I know you haven’t told your family yet, so I didn’t say anything about us. I just brought up favourite flowers in a conversation and she told me that your favourites are sunflowers.” Phoenix explained. Applejack noticeably calmed down as she looked back at him with a rather loving look.

“Thank you, Phoenix. This was... just so thoughtful. Not just the flowers either. Just...” Applejack’s sentence trailed off as she leant in and pecked Phoenix on the cheek. Phoenix was no stranger to receiving kisses on the cheek, but the one Applejack gave him was different. It seemed to burn on his skin, but it was a burn that he never wanted to stop feeling. His hoof found his cheek in an effort to feel the sensation more. Applejack giggled at his dumbstruck expression.

“Enjoy that, sugarcube?” Applejack teased.

“Immensely.” Phoenix replied breathlessly. Applejack giggled again as the both of them began to walk to the farmhouse. Phoenix waited outside as Applejack placed the bouquet in a vase of water on the kitchen’s windowsill. After she emerged, the both of them decided that they could go to Sugarcube Corner for Applejack’s lunch break. As they reached the cafe, they noticed Fluttershy was already there.

“Hey there, Fluttershy! What’re you doin’ here?” Applejack asked in a friendly manner.

“Oh. Hello you two. I just thought I’d come here for lunch.” Fluttershy replied.

“I guess great minds think alike, then. We were thinking the exact same thing.” Phoenix said.

“So, what’ve you been up to today, Fluttershy?” Applejack asked.

“I’ve been leading a family of ducks to a new pond. I also told my cutie mark story to the Cutie Mark Crusaders.” Fluttershy explained.

“That’s funny. The girls asked me to tell mah story too.” Applejack replied. Suddenly, Rarity entered and began to walk to the counter, but stopped when he saw her friends.

“Why, hello, darlings. I didn’t expect to see you here.” Rarity said as she approached them.

“We could say the same to you, Rarity.” Phoenix replied.

“Well, I thought I could do with a break from my work and I decided that I had quite the craving for something sweet.” Rarity explained. Before anypony could reply, Twilight and Rainbow Dash walked in.

“Hey, guys! Didn’t know you were all here!” Rainbow exclaimed excitedly.

“Yeah, it seems the only one of us that isn’t here is the one who bloody works here.” Phoenix said with a chuckle, causing the girls to laugh.

“By the way, Rainbow, the Crusaders were looking for you. I think they want to know your cutie mark story.” Fluttershy said.

“Indeed, they asked me for mine, but they did say that they were looking for you.” Rarity said to which Applejack and Twilight agreed. After a few minutes of the group conversing, Pinkie pranced through the door happily with the six Crusaders in tow.

“Rainbow Dash! You’re here!” Scootaloo yelled excitedly as the rest of the Crusaders were standing at her side. Rainbow began walking to the group.

“I hear you’re for my cutie mark story.” Rainbow stated.

“You have no idea what I've been through today to hear that story.” Scootaloo expressed tiredly as she sat down.

“It all happened during the race at Flight Camp...” Rainbow then began telling the story. She told everypony present about how she not only got her cutie mark, but she also performed the Sonic Rainboom for the first time. Phoenix looked around to see that the girls all had awestruck expressions as the story went on. Phoenix was wondering why they had those expressions, but he didn’t have to wait long. As Rainbow finished her story, Fluttershy immediately spoke up.

“Wait a second. I heard that explosion. And I saw the rainbow too. Rainbow Dash, if you hadn't scared the animals, I never would have learned I could communicate with them and gotten my cutie mark.” Fluttershy said excitedly.

“I heard that boom! And right afterwards, there was this amazing rainbow that taught me to smile.” Pinkie Pie exclaimed in joy.

“When Ah got my cutie mark, Ah saw a rainbow that pointed me home. Ah bet it was your Sonic Rainboom!” Applejack said happily.

“There was an explosion I could never explain when I got my cutie mark.” Rarity said with amazement.

“This is uncanny! If that explosion didn't happen when it did, I would have blown my entrance exam. Rainbow Dash, I think you helped me earn my cutie mark too!” Twilight exclaimed in shock. Pinkie Pie then tackled Rainbow to the ground.

“We all owe our cutie marks to you!” Pinkie Pie said.

“Do you realize what this means? All of us had a special connection before we even met.” Fluttershy said in the same tone.

“We've been BFFs forever and we didn't even know it!” Rarity added.

“Come here, y'all.” Applejack said as they all gathered into a group hug. Everypony minus Phoenix and Scootaloo released a sound of appreciation for the adorableness. Scootaloo from disgust, Phoenix just remaining silent. Phoenix kept his feelings of joy inside him, but gave a warm smile.

“Wait, what about Phoenix?” Rainbow asked. Phoenix and Pinkie’s eyes flew open as they tensed.

“What about me?” Phoenix asked, trying to remain calm.

“Yeah! This is a happy moment! Let’s just enjoy it!” Pinkie said, trying to sound casual.

“Hey, I just wanna know what his story is.” Rainbow said a little more forcefully.

“Well, uh... I didn’t see the Sonic Rainboom. I think that’s all you want to know.” Phoenix said. Pinkie could see that the rest of the girls were becoming curious and that the story was going to be told, so she went over to the Crusaders and persuaded them to leave.

“C’mon, Phoenix. Tell us. What’re you hiding?” Rainbow said a little angrily.

“Indeed, Phoenix, we all want to know.” Rarity added.

“No, you really, really don’t.” Phoenix said with nervous conviction.

“Please, Phoenix? We all told ours.” Fluttershy pleaded quietly.

“I can’t!” Phoenix exclaimed.

“If it’s painful, I think talking about it will do you good.” Twilight stated.

“It won’t, Twilight. Telling my cutie mark story will just ruin my life even more than when I actually got it in the first place!” Phoenix exclaimed, his voice rising.

“...What do you mean by that?” Rarity asked. Phoenix realised his mistake.

“Shit.” Phoenix cursed under his breath.

“Phoenix. Please.” Applejack said, looking into his eyes. Their gaze remained until Phoenix looked at Pinkie for approval. She seemed to contemplate her answer before nodding. Phoenix sighed before beginning.

“Getting a cutie mark is meant to be the start of a new life. With me, that was a little more literal. Before my new life began... my old one ended. I suppose I need to give you some back-story first. My childhood was as good as one could hope to start with. Stable financial status, wonderful brother and sister, anything I could want. But, I was always taught to not be greedy by my parents. That was the only good thing they ever did for me.

“On my sixth birthday, my mother: Felicia came up to my siblings and I and told us something I’ve never forgotten. She said: ‘I don’t love you, you little maggots’; she slapped us across the faces and walked out of the house. We never saw her again. After the course of the next year, my father: Amadeus began to unravel and became far angrier and far more violent.

“Eventually he saw that because my brother and my sister were prodigies in their respective fields while I was just average... I was the only one he could ‘afford to damage’. Over the course of the year, his attacks became more and more severe as he became colder and colder. He no longer cared about my pain and all my brother and sister could do was watch. ...I suppose I... never told you the whole truth about what caused the scars on my chest.” Everypony was already in tears but Rarity was the only one to respond.

“What do you mean by that, darling? You said it was a manticore.” Rarity said, trying not to sob.

“...I didn’t lie on that front, but... It was my father who threw me into the nest while we were visiting Ponyville. He dragged me by my mane and just threw me headfirst into a manticore, laughing as he did so. I don’t think he expected me to escape that, because his response was...” Phoenix’s words stopped as he began to sob. Everypony was in complete shock. Applejack may have seen him cry before, but she had never seen him sob the way he did before. Pinkie was the one crying the least, so she wrapped her hooves around him.

“What did he say, Phoenix?” Pinkie asked. She already knew as she was already told the story, but the girls needed to hear all of it.

“...He... He said... ‘I’ll have to try harder next time’.” Phoenix said. Nopony could speak. They felt overwhelming pity for the stallion as they all wrapped their hooves around him.

“I... can see why you wouldn’t want to talk about this, Phoenix, but... what did you mean by ruining your life?” Twilight hesitantly asked.

“I haven’t got to the part that’ll make you hate me yet.” Phoenix replied, his eyes beginning to slightly dry. Nopony responded to the comment, so Phoenix took the silence as an opportunity to continue the story.

“We didn’t celebrate my seventh birthday. Everypony just went about doing what they do. I grew ever more distant from my siblings let alone my father when I was that age. When I went to bed, I heard my door creak open. I was prepared for the worst, but instead I saw my brother and sister. They didn’t say anything. Both of them just walked in, kissed me on the forehead, said ‘Happy birthday’ and handed me a present. After they left, I opened the present to see that they got me a deck of cards. In that moment, I was glad that I still had them, rather than being completely alone. I put them in my pyjama pocket and went to sleep.

“Minutes after they left, my door opened again. Except this time, it was my father standing in my doorway. He had his gun floating next to him, held aloft by his magic. I screamed louder than I ever had before and I didn’t stop screaming. Even as he dragged me out of the house by my mane, a mad look in his eyes and the gun never leaving him. I yelled so loudly that I woke both my brother and sister... I’ll never forget their expressions when they saw our father throw me to the ground and aim the gun at my head. Horror. Pure, unbiased horror.

“Adrenalin filled my system and time seemed to slow as my eyes seemed to take in any and all information that they could. Suddenly, all the memories of the beatings, the hatred and the solitude filled my mind. And I got angry. Really angry. I noticed that he was checking the ammunition, which let me know that... he was really going to kill me like a dog. So... I fought back.

“For the first time, I fought back against my father. I knew I had to stop the hammer as I’d learned about guns from the very stallion that was trying to kill me with one. I also remembered my present. I used my magic to open the pack of cards and used enough of them that the firing pin wouldn’t get any impact from the hammer. I then started using the remaining cards as projectiles. One after one, at his face, while I was silently begging him to stop and the rain began to fall. Eventually, it happened.

“I ran out of cards. I had to do something. Anything. So... before he could recover... I... I took the gun in my magic and... removed the cards and aimed for his head. ...Bang...” Phoenix let the words sink in as the girls realised what he had done.

“My brother, sister and I watched in horror as my father’s blood was flowing away in the downpour that had started. I thought I saw some light behind me, so I panicked, thinking somepony had caught me. Through instinct, I ran. I ran so far. It was only when I stopped that I noticed my cutie mark. It doesn’t mean I’m just good at card games... it means I’m good with cards in general. Whatever they can be used for... Including as weapons, apparently...” Phoenix didn’t wait for the girls to react. He ran, just like he did when he was so young. He stuck to the shadows immediately as he saw the girls emerge from Sugarcube Corner trying to search for him.

Phoenix sighed as the guilt of his action came flooding back into his mind. He began to weigh his options in his mind. He knew that there was a chance that the girls would understand and maybe forgive him. However, if he did just let them forgive him, he’d never forgive himself. He finally decided what he had to do. He walked to his house...





Over an hour passed of the girls desperately searching for Phoenix, but to no avail. Pinkie told them that they had already checked all the places that she thought he would be, but after asking a few townsponies, they ran to where they said that Phoenix was heading. When they arrived, they saw the outline of a stallion sitting on a cliff looking out at the sunset. Pinkie and Applejack immediately held the girls back as they slowly advanced towards him. Not unlike approaching a deer.

“I like sunsets. Don’t you, girls?” Phoenix said without turning around. The girls tensed as Pinkie began to slowly get closer.

“Y-yeah! Sunset are... are cool!” Pinkie said nervously.  Phoenix didn’t respond immediately before letting out a lone chuckle.

“Pinkie, I’m not going to do what you think I am.” Phoenix said, finally turning around.

“You’re not gonna...?” Pinkie stopped speaking as she hinted to the cliff.

“Would you feel better if I moved?” Phoenix asked.

“...Yes. Please.” Pinkie pleaded, to which Phoenix complied.

“What’re you doin’ all the way out here? We were worried sick!” Applejack exclaimed.

“I’m sorry, AJ, but I didn’t want to make a scene in Ponyville.” As Phoenix finished his sentence, two royal guards emerged onto the cliff top with Phoenix and the girls.

“Phoenix Fortesque?” One of the guards asked.

“That’s me.” Phoenix said as he stepped forward.

“You’re the one who called us?” The other guard asked.

“Yes, I am.”

“Very well.” The guards then placed some hoofcuffs on his legs and a magic lock on his horn before the first guard began to speak.

“You’re under arrest for the murder of Amadeus Fortesque. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you do say may be held against you in a court of law. May Celestia have mercy on your soul.”
> Turnabout Trouble
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix laid quietly in his cell as he waited for the guards to take him to the courtroom. He was taken to the dungeon of Canterlot castle immediately after he was arrested before being transferred to the Canterlot Courtroom Detention Centre. Phoenix’s eyes opened as he heard hoofsteps approaching his cell. He sat up to see not guards like he was expecting but the two princesses standing outside of his cell. He stared for a moment before standing respectfully.

“We heard about your... confession. Did you really...?” Celestia began, but couldn’t finish.

“I’m afraid so, Celestia. I did murder him.” Phoenix replied shamefully.

“Dost thou intend to defend thyself?” Luna asked, hopefully. Phoenix looked slightly surprised before speaking.

“The reason I came forward was to receive the judgement I deserve and finally put this to rest.” Phoenix replied, ignoring Luna’s new speech style. The princesses looked sombre for a moment before looking back to him.

“I will be presiding over the trial. I wish I could help you but...” Celestia trailed off regretfully.

“You’ve got to follow the law. I understand.” Phoenix replied soothingly. The princesses sombrely walked away, presumably to prepare for the trial. Phoenix watched them leave and felt all the more guilty to make them feel that way. The minutes that passed were somewhat agonising as Phoenix tried to mentally prepare himself for the trial. It was after twenty minutes when two guards opened his cell. Phoenix instantly rose to his feet and allowed the guards to chain his legs and place a magic lock on his horn, then allowed them to escort him to the courtroom. The closer they got, the clearer Celestia’s voice from the courtroom.

“Bailiff, could you please bring in the defendant?” Celestia instructed. Phoenix was then escorted inside and walked to the witness stand.

“Defendant, please state your name and occupation.” Celestia instructed softly.

“My name is Phoenix Fortesque and I’m a student councillor.” Phoenix politely replied.

“Do you have any statements to make before the prosecution begins?” Celestia asked.

“...No. I don’t.” Phoenix replied. He then looked out at the ponies in the gallery. His eyes eventually met an entire row of ponies he recognised. Applejack, Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Cheerilee were all present and that alone elicited a small smile from the stallion.

“Very well. Prosecution, you may begin.” Celestia said. The light grey furred stallion with the dark grey mane in the magenta suit then rose from his seat.

“Thank you, your honour. If it would please the court, I would like to move immediately to my first witness.” The prosecutor said.

“I see no problems. Does the defence have anything to say about this?” Celestia asked the light blue furred stallion with the black mane in the royal blue suit.

“The defence has no objections, your honour.” The stallion replied.

“Very well, I hereby call my first witness.” The prosecutor said. Not long after, the doors opened and a new stallion took the witness stand while Phoenix was kept under supervision at the defence table. Upon seeing the stallion, Twilight gasped while the rest of the girls looked confused.

“I didn’t realise how alike they look...” Twilight muttered to herself.

“Twilight, who is that guy?” Applejack asked. Before Twilight could answer; the silence was cut by the prosecutor’s voice.

“Witness, please state your name and occupation.” The prosecutor instructed.

“My name is Cloud Fortesque and I am the mayor of Canterlot.” Cloud replied.

“And what is your personal connection to the defendant?” The prosecutor asked.

“He’s my younger brother.” Cloud answered.

“And you witnessed the murder of your father?”

“Yes, but...”

“But what?” The prosecutor rudely interrupted.

“I’d prefer it if the incident wasn’t referred to as murder.” Cloud announced bringing confusion to everypony.

“Well, what would you prefer it be called?” The prosecutor asked.

“Self defence.” Cloud replied. The prosecutor was taken aback for a moment before composing himself.

“Are you trying to insinuate that the defendant was only protecting himself from the victim?” The prosecutor asked sceptically.

“Yes. Our sister and I saw the entire thing and I know that he was merely trying to stop our father from murdering him. There is nothing further that needs to be said. Our father dragged him outside by his mane and tried to murder him with his revolver.” As Cloud finished, the ponies in the gallery began to murmur in complete synchronicity. Prosecutor Bluequill seemed to begin sweating as the new information came to light.

“W-well, I’m afraid unless you can give proof of that, I move that the court won’t take what you say as evidence.” Bluequill said.

“Objection, your honour! We can’t disregard Mr Fortesque’s testimony just because it doesn’t suit the prosecution!” Mr Edgepoint objected.

“Agreed. Movement denied. The witness’ testimony will not be stricken from the record. Do you have any further comments to make, Mr Bluequill?” Celestia asked after banging her gavel. Mr Bluequill didn’t answer immediately.

‘This isn’t going well! I need to do something or I’m going to lose the case! But, I only have one more witness.’ Bluequill thought frantically.

“No further questions, your honour. I’d like to call my second witness.” Bluequill said.

“Very well. Mr Fortesque, you may leave. Thank you for your time.” Celestia said pleasantly. Cloud nodded before standing and walking back to the lobby after sharing a look with his brother and exchanging a nod. Moments later, a mare walked through the courtroom and sat at the witness stand. She had a grey coat, a dark grey mane and tail, a treble-clef cutie mark and bright lavender eyes; matching Cloud’s.

“Witness, please state your name and occupation.” Bluequill said.

“My name is Octavia Fortesque and I am the cellist of the Canterlot Royal Orchestra.” Octavia said with an expression that masked Cloud’s. Stone-faced.

“And what is your relationship with the defendant?”

“He’s my big brother.” Octavia replied, causing Bluequill’s stomach to turn.

‘Well... shit.’ Bluequill thought.

“So, you are the sister that Mr Fortesque mentioned in his testimony?” Celestia asked.

“Indeed, I am. Now, I assume that you have some questions for me?” Octavia asked.

“...Did you hear Mr Fortesque’s testimony from the lobby?” Bluequill asked weakly.

“Yes, I did.” Octavia replied.

“Does your testimony match his, or do you have any further details to add or change?” Bluequill continued weakly as sweat began to pour from his face. Octavia thought for a moment before turning back to Bluequill.

“No. My testimony matches Cloud’s. Was there anything else?” Octavia asked.

“...No.” Bluequill sulked as he sat down and placed his face on his desk. Nopony dared to move.

“Uh... Defence, do you have anything to add?” Celestia asked unsurely. Mr Edgepoint slowly stood.

“Uh... No questions, your honour.” Mr Edgepoint slowly sat back down. As he did, three stallions walked into the courtroom. Two of them were royal guards holding the chains that shackled the third stallion. He was a young stallion. He didn’t look any older than late teens or early twenties. His coat was a pale yellow, his mane and tail were scruffy, long and pure white, his cutie mark was that of an open tome and his eyes were a bright gold despite the black bags under them.

“Ah, he’s finally here. Cognito, could you please tell the court if this witness did indeed see what she claims she did?” Celestia asked. The shackles made quiet noises as the small stallion moved, but they seemed to echo through the entire room.

“What is it that she claimed to see?” Cognito asked in a somewhat lifeless voice.

“Miss Fortesque, please state your testimony.” Celestia asked.

“Everypony in our house was asleep, but we were awoken by Phoenix’s screaming. Cloud and I emerged from our rooms just in time to see our father drag Phoenix outside by his mane. We ran down the stairs and stood in the front doorway as we saw our father aim his revolver at Phoenix’s head. Phoenix fought back while both Cloud and I were rooted to the spot. Eventually, Phoenix tried to get the gun away from him, but the gun fired and killed our father. Phoenix panicked at his mistake and ran.” Octavia explained. Celestia turned her attention from Octavia to Cognito. Cognito also turned his attention from Octavia and returned Celestia’s gaze.

“She’s telling the truth.” Cognito said simply.

“Hold on! How can you be so sure?! Why would the defendant run? Only guilty people run!” Prosecutor Bluequill objected.

“Well, he was seven at the time, you narrow-minded buffoon.” Octavia said, annoyed.

“And he can be sure because he can read her mind.” Celestia said.

...

The silence was practically palpable.

“W-what? You... don’t truly believe that do you?” Bluequill asked.

“I’m inclined to believe him. I’ve been putting more research into it and it seems that there are parts of his brain that are different that the average brain, which is believed to be what gives him his psychic abilities.” Celestia explained, which led Phoenix to think to himself for a moment.

‘Abnormality in the brain, huh?’ Phoenix thought.

“From the testimonies given, and the lack of evidence to declare otherwise; I see no reason to hold off the verdict any longer.” Celestia said.

“Wait, your honour, I object!” Bluequill objected.

“Overruled.” Celestia replied simply, causing Bluequill to sit back down and continue to sulk.

“I hereby find the defendant, Phoenix Fortesque not guilty of murder and clear him of all charges.” Celestia declared before banging her gavel. After the guards released Phoenix, they took Cognito away. Phoenix’s thoughts lingered on the strange stallion before meeting his friends as a free stallion. Phoenix took the opportunity to introduce Applejack and his friends to Cloud and Octavia. It was merely an introduction as both Cloud and Octavia were on a tight schedule with their careers and needed to get back to them. As the group were getting ready to take the train back to Ponyville, Phoenix straddled behind.

“What’s up, Feenie?” Pinkie asked.

“...I need to ask Celestia something. You guys go back to Ponyville. I’ll get the next one.” Phoenix said.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight called out to him. Applejack walked to Phoenix and embraced him as they said goodbye.

“I’ll see you in a bit.” Phoenix said as he embraced her back.

“You can count on that.” Applejack said as they let go of each other. Phoenix watched as the girls boarded the train and waved goodbye as it was leaving the station. Phoenix then walked back to the castle and caught Celestia walking towards the throne room with Luna.

“Celestia!” Phoenix called out, causing the princesses to turn their heads.

“Why, Phoenix. I wasn’t expecting to see you so soon after the trial.” Celestia said, pleasantly surprised.

“We’d like to congratulate thee on that by the way.” Luna interjected politely.

“Thank you, Luna. But, I came looking for you to ask a favour of you.” Phoenix said.

“Oh? And what would that be?” Celestia asked curiously.

“I’d like you to scan my brain for the same abnormalities that Cognito has.” Phoenix said, bringing the princesses to silence.

“...Well, that eliminates the need to ask you.” Celestia replied.
> Party For Your Thoughts
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"This is your singing telegram, I hope it finds you well! 

You're invited to a party, 'cause we think you're really swell!

Gummy's turning one year old, so help us celebrate!

The cake will be delicious, the festivities first-rate!

There will be games and dancing, bob for apples, cut a rug,

And when the party's over, we'll gather 'round for a group hug!

No need to bring a gift, being there will be enough,

Birthdays mean having fun with friends not getting lots of stuff.

It won't be the same without you, so we hope that you say yes.

So, please, oh please R.S.V.P. and come, and be our guest!"

Phoenix stood in silence as Pinkie stood before him whilst dressed as a joker playing card with a wicker basket filled with pink pieces of paper strapped to her head. Phoenix used his magic to take one of the slips from the basket. He unfolded it and read the invitation that was written inside.

"Sounds good, I'll see you there." Phoenix said simply. Pinkie then grinned widely as she threw the outfit off to reveal two large party poppers strapped to her. One to her head and one to her body.

"See you later, Feenie!" Pinkie said happily as Gummy grabbed onto her tail and she bounced through town towards Sweet Apple Acres. Before Phoenix could close the door, Ditzy Doo landed in front of him dressed as a mailmare.

"Letter for you, Mr Fortesque" Ditzy said cheerfully as she hoofed a scroll to him.

"Thank you, Miss Doo. I see that the postal service accepted you. The job interview went well, I presume?" Phoenix said as he took the letter in his magic.

"Yeah! I'm having so much fun with it! But, you don't have to call me 'Miss Doo'. Just Ditzy'll do." Ditzy said kindly.

"Only if you extend the same to me. Just call me Phoenix." Phoenix responded in kind.

"Oh. Okay, Phoenix. I hope you have a good day!" Ditzy said happily.

"Thank you, Ditzy. I hope you do too." Phoenix replied pleasantly.

Ditzy then flew away to continue her round before Phoenix walked back into his house and looked at his letter. It was from Celestia.

'I suppose the big bloody seal should have given it away.' Phoenix thought. He removed the seal, unrolled the scroll and began to read.

...

Positive.

The tests that Phoenix was a subject of had shown positive results. His brain had the same abnormalities as Cognito's did.

'I can read minds. Wait... Hmm... Maybe I should try to perform some tests of my own.' Phoenix thought to himself. He then shook his head quickly and slapped himself.

'What am I thinking?! It would be a complete invasion of privacy! ...However... If I don't bring it up with anypony and just keep it a secret, I suppose I won't harm anypony. I'll just have to be careful and try not to discover things that I shouldn't.' Phoenix then looked up in thought.

'Then again, I usually see those kind of things just by looking at ponies' reactions and behaviour anyway. This is pretty much no different.' Phoenix thought. After he came to a decision, Phoenix left his house and walked into the town market. He looked around and eventually saw Hoops and Rainbow Dash flying together. Phoenix stayed out of sight and tried to remember exactly how he felt when he heard Rarity in the diamond caves. With those feelings in mind, he turned his attention to Hoops and focused his mind. After a few attempts, he began to hear whispers in his mind. As he focused harder, the whispers became clearer and his nose began to bleed.

'Why won't these feelings go away? I just want to make her happy.' The whispering voice belonged to Hoops.

'I guess he still feels the same as always.' Phoenix thought sympathetically. He wiped his nose with a few tissues before trying again on Rainbow Dash. His nose began to bleed again, albeit less severely as he concentrated. However, his head had begun to ache quite painfully. Phoenix tried to ignore the pain as he continued to concentrate.

'My heart feels weird... Kinda... fuzzy.' The whispering voice of Rainbow echoed through Phoenix's mind.

'Well, well, well. What an interesting development.' Phoenix thought with a smirk. He wiped his nose again as he walked back to his house to prepare the news for Gummy's party and grab the first pain pills he could get his hooves on.





Hours later as the sun was beginning its descent in the sky, Phoenix began his walk towards Sugarcube Corner. He entered the café to see Pinkie Pie jumping around while the girls were watching her and giggling.

"Evening, girls." Phoenix announced as he entered.

"Hey, Feenie! What's up?" Pinkie asked excitedly.

"Actually, there's something I'd like to announce." Phoenix said seriously, immediately catching everypony's attention.

"What's up, Phoenix?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"I've subjected myself to some tests that Celestia was running on somepony else. Do you remember Cognito from my trial?" Phoenix asked to which the girls nodded and Twilight mumbled something that sounded like 'Princess Celestia'.

"Well, she mentioned that the tests were to detect some abnormalities in his brain." Phoenix clarified.

"Wait. Phoenix, dear... are you saying...?" Rarity asked.

"Yes. The results came back positive. I can read minds." Phoenix finished. Silence fell before Rainbow Dash began laughing.

"Yeah, right! You had us goin' there, Nicky!" Rainbow said, amused.

"Do you want me to prove it?" Phoenix asked.

"Yeah. Dare ya. What am I thinking?" Rainbow replied. Phoenix focused his attention on her before beginning to concentrating. Blood began to drip from his nose once more, causing shock to fill everypony else. Eventually he exhaled and staggered slightly before turning back to Rainbow.

"You were thinking that maybe you should test how sensitive your hooves are." Phoenix said as he wiped his nose once again. Rainbow's eyes grew wide as her cheeks took on a shade of pink. The rest of the girls looked to Rainbow for confirmation, to which she nodded.

"What kind of sensitive, Dashie?" Pinkie asked. Everypony seemed to share the thought that that wasn't the first question that they would have asked. Rainbow's face turned a little more red before she answered.

"Just... sensitive." Rainbow replied shyly. Nopony replied after Phoenix covered Pinkie's mouth before she could ask further.

"I think it goes without sayin' that you shouldn't read anypony's minds without their say-so." Applejack said to Phoenix.

"Agreed. I was about promise that I wouldn't, to be honest." Phoenix replied. Pinkie pushed Phoenix's hoof out of her mouth.

"How do we know that you're serious about that?" Pinkie asked suspiciously. Phoenix stayed silent for a moment.

"Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Phoenix said as he did the actions that went along with the swear as well. After everypony seemed satisfied with the promise, they returned to the party. Everypony continued to eat, drink, dance and party as the sun had set from the sky and night had fallen. Everypony then began to leave to the respective homes, but Phoenix decided that he would walk Applejack home, to which she didn't object. As they walked, Phoenix decided to dispense some information for Applejack.

"You're kiddin'! How do you know?" Applejack asked.

"Back when I was testing my new abilities, I happened on a thought from our favourite rainbow-maned daredevil. It was about her heart feeling fuzzy." Phoenix explained.

"Hmm. Ah get the feelin' you're gonna play matchmaker." Applejack said with a wry smile.

"Maybe~. I do plan on convincing Rainbow to invite him to Pinkie's party tomorrow." Phoenix replied.

"Eh, that'll give us a chance to meet 'im."

"I agree. It would be nice to actually meet him rather than just revealing his greatest secret." Phoenix said a little guiltily.

"Well, y'did give him the chance to actually get closer to his crush long enough for her to like him back. Maybe he'll be grateful." Applejack optimistically replied.

"Maybe." Phoenix replied simply as they reached the door to the farmhouse. As Applejack opened the door, Apple Bloom ran up to her.

"Applejack! Winona knocked over your flowers!" Apple Bloom said in a panic.

"What?!" Applejack said before rushing to the kitchen. Apple Bloom and Phoenix followed her to see that the sunflowers had not only been knocked over, but in a panic, Winona had trampled them as well. Apple Bloom leaned over to Phoenix and motioned him to come closer.

"Those were from her secret admirer. That's why she's so sad." Apple Bloom whispered as Phoenix nodded in mock understanding as he knew who they were from. Phoenix walked over to Applejack as she sat on her haunches.

"AJ, it's alright. They're just flowers." Phoenix said as he tried to comfort her.

"It's not just the flowers, Phoenix. They were a symbol of... mah secret admirer." Applejack said, seemingly annoyed about having to use the term to avoid revealing their relationship.

"...Well, if your secret admirer is serious about their feelings, I'm sure they'll give you something a little more... permanent." Phoenix said with a kind smile after having a moment to think. Applejack looked up and gave him a teary smile, having caught on to what he meant. She stood up and wrapped her hooves around Phoenix, but she was clearly annoyed about making it look like a friendly hug. Applejack and Apple Bloom then bade their goodbyes to Phoenix and he began to leave. However, as he left the house, Apple Bloom caught up with him.

"Phoenix, do you know who Applejack's secret admirer is?" Apple Bloom asked. Phoenix didn't change his expression, but inside, his stomach had begun to twist. He knew he'd have to choose his words with care.

"I can't say that I do, Bloom. Sorry." Phoenix replied. Apple Bloom sighed in a mix of sadness and annoyance.

"Ah was hopin' you did." Apple Bloom replied.

"Why's that?"

"Well... after Caramel, Ah was hopin' that Ah could learn about this secret admirer so Ah could warn her if Ah needed to."

"Bloom... Don't get me wrong, your intention is pure and you're just looking out for your sister. Your heart's in the right place and I know it. But, if she decides to find out who this secret admirer is and get into a relationship with them, that's her choice." Phoenix said softly.

"Ah know... Ah just don't want her to get hurt again." Apple Bloom replied.

"Applejack is a strong, level-headed mare. If she thinks the admirer's bad news, I'm sure she'd see it from a mile away." Phoenix said confidently.

"Ah guess." Apple Bloom replied, a little more optimistically.

"Now, you should really be getting to bed, Bloom. But, out of curiosity, what kind of pony would you want the admirer to be like?" Phoenix asked. Apple Bloom slowly walked towards the front door as she thought.

"Ah don't know. Just... nopony bad." Apple Bloom said as she walked through the door and began to shut it, but stopped halfway.

"Actually... Ah'd want them to be just like you, Phoenix." Apple Bloom said before waving and shutting the door. Phoenix sat motionless for a moment before smiling and beginning his walk back into town, excitement for many things buzzing through his mind.
> Party of One
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun illuminated the Ponyville sky as Phoenix trotted to the local jeweller with a bag of bits in his pocket. As he entered the newly-opened shop, he began to look around as the bored-looking stallion watched him. Phoenix looked around the brooches, rings, diadems and necklaces, but couldn't find anything that caught his eye.

"Is there anything I can help you with, sir?" The clerk asked in a dull tone.

"I was just trying to find the perfect piece of jewellery for my girlfriend." Phoenix replied.

"What do you think she would like?" The clerk asked. Phoenix thought for a moment before replying.

"It would have to look good, obviously. But, it would also have to be practical so she could wear it whenever she liked, therefore it would have to be fairly durable too." Phoenix explained.

"Well, what you see is what I've got." The clerk said rudely. Phoenix didn't look at him as he took his little bag out of his pocket and opened it slightly to reveal the large number of bits inside.

"...Would you like to see our other stock?" The clerk asked a little more politely.

"Yes, I would, thank you." Phoenix replied. The two stallions entered to back room where the more expensive items were. Phoenix began to look around while the clerk once again watched him. Finding nothing in the diadem section, Phoenix was about to move on until something caught his eye. A brooch. It was relatively small, but in terms of gemstones, it was quite large. It was a simple circular cut ruby, with a metallic stalk and leaf added to the top. The clerk noticed Phoenix's extra attention on it and began to speak.

"That is a one hundred carat ruby with a golden stalk and leaf." The clerk expressed dully.

"It looks like an apple." Phoenix said, seemingly to himself.

"Well, yes it do-."

"I'll take it." Phoenix said before the clerk could reply. The clerk's eyes widened as Phoenix hoofed over the bag of bits.

"U-uh. Very well. W-was there anything else, sir?" The clerk asked, astounded.

"No, thank you. That will be all." Phoenix said as he took the brooch in his magic. The clerk placed the bits in the cash register and Phoenix placed the brooch in his pocket as he left the shop. Phoenix began the return trip to his home only to run into Pinkie Pie just before he reached his door.

"Hey, Feenie! I was looking for you!" Pinkie said excitedly.

"Hello, Pinkie. Why were you looking for me?" Phoenix asked.

"I was gonna invite you to Gummy's after-birthday party this afternoon!" Pinkie said excitedly. 

'Of all the times she makes up an excuse to have a party, it had to be today!' Phoenix thought with annoyance.

"This afternoon? As in, this afternoon this afternoon?" Phoenix asked.

"Yeah!" Pinkie replied.

"Have you asked any of the girls?" Phoenix asked.

"No, not yet. Why?" Pinkie answered, unfazed.

'Then, I don't have to worry about saying an excuse that she's heard already.' Phoenix thought.

"Well, I'm afraid that I don't think I can make it." Phoenix said. Pinkie's eyes widened before giving a sadly disappointed expression.

"Why?" Pinkie asked.

"I've got to drop something to Applejack this morning and then I'm attending a game of high-stakes no-limit Appleloosa Hold 'Em at the casino. I can't say for sure what time that'll finish. Sorry." Phoenix lied with an unchanging sympathetic expression.

"Oh. Okay. That's a shame." Pinkie said disappointedly.

"Maybe the girls can come though, right?" Phoenix asked to cover his tracks.

"Yeah! I guess it'll just be us girls!" Pinkie said excitedly before she began to bounce towards the library. Phoenix exhaled before unlocking his door and walking inside. Grabbing a blanket from the cupboard near the door he covered his cargo before lifting it and walking outside once more with the covered package in tow. He took the long way in order to avoid any complicating confrontations with Pinkie Pie, meaning when he actually arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, Pinkie was already leaving. Making sure she wouldn't spot him, he made his way to Applejack, package still with him. Upon seeing him, Applejack unhinged herself from the cart of apples and embraced him.

"Didja bring it?" Applejack asked. Phoenix nodded before removing the blanket from his package revealing a fuel crystal-powered karaoke machine.

"Great! Come on, let's put it in the barn." Applejack said as she began to walk towards said barn with Phoenix following close behind her. As they entered, Applejack motioned for Phoenix to place the machine in the corner. After he did so, Applejack was about to say something, but Phoenix interrupted.

"Before we start AJ, there's um... something I'd like to give you." Phoenix said before taking the brooch out of his pocket and holding it front of her with his magic. Applejack let out a gasp as she took in what it was. After stumbling over her words numerous times, she finally spoke.

"I-It's beautiful... It's really for me?" Applejack asked with teary eyes.

"Of course. I had to replace the flowers in some way, didn't I?" Phoenix replied, gladdened that she liked it. Applejack took it in her hoof to get a closer look at it.

"How much did it cost?" Applejack asked, worried that he may have spent too much. She jumped slightly when she felt his hoof on her cheek.

"It doesn't matter. You are more important to me than any amount of bits." Phoenix said before kissing her on the cheek. Applejack's cheeks turned bright red as she gasped.

"I-is this how you feel when Ah do that to you?" Applejack asked breathlessly.

"Well, is you heart beating quickly?" Phoenix asked.

"Yep." Applejack replied.

"Mind can't think of anything except what just happened?"

"Yep."

"Burning sensation in you cheek?"

"Uh-huh."

"And you don't want any of it to end?"

"Nope."

"Then, yes. That's pretty much it in a nutshell." Phoenix finished with a smile which Applejack returned.

"Gosh, you really didn't have to get me somethin' so... beautiful." Applejack said, still in awe of the brooch.

"Well, one beautiful thing deserves another." Phoenix replied, causing Applejack to blush again.

"Phoenix, stop it! Mah heart's gonna thumpa-thud outta mah chest if ya keep doin' that!" Applejack exclaimed with a shy smile. Phoenix simply chuckled before Applejack moved her other forehoof and removed her hat. She then unclipped the brooch's pin and stabbed it through the hat's fabric on one side and clipped it once again. Following which, she put the hat back on her head.

"Beautiful." Phoenix said.

"It does look good, doesn't it?" Applejack cheerfully replied.

"Oh, the brooch. Yeah, it looks good too." Phoenix replied humorously.

"Darn it! Ah walked into that one!" Applejack exclaimed with a large smile and a red face as they both laughed. Applejack's smile changed slightly as her gaze went back to Phoenix.

"Ah just thought of a way to repay you, sugarcube." Applejack said teasingly.

"AJ, you don't need to repay me. This was just me showing how much I care." Phoenix replied as Applejack walked closer. Her muzzle came closer and closer to his own until he could feel her breath on his fur and blushing skin.

"Then, this is me doin' the same." Applejack said before she pushed Phoenix against the barn wall. He let out a small gasp as his heartbeat began to increase even more than it had already.

"Pucker up, sugarcube..." Applejack whispered softly, before slowly closing her eyes and leaning closer, lead Phoenix to do the same without thinking. The distance between there muzzles grew ever smaller. The gap ever shrinking.

Smaller.

Smaller.

Until...

Their lips met. It was unlike anything Phoenix had ever experienced before. He could always rely on his mind to analyse and absorb every piece of information in everything that surrounded him, but in that moment, the only thing that was on his mind was the mare he was kissing. He knew that he wouldn't be able to think of anything else, but he also knew that he didn't want to. He suddenly remembered some descriptions of a first kiss from very bad romance novels that he used to read, but they all suddenly made sense to him.

Despite it not being her first kiss, Applejack knew within a second of contact that it was her best. It was like an electrical force shooting through every part of her body and she never wanted it to stop. But, she knew that the best part of it was Phoenix was enjoying it too. She was his first. And she took pride and honour in that. Her hooves wrapped around his neck and pulled him closer, deepening the kiss. After she did so, Phoenix hesitantly placed his hooves delicately on her hips. After what felt like a well-spent eternity, their lips disconnected, leaving them breathing like they had both just completed the Running of the Leaves at full throttle. They shared a shaky, shy laugh before looking around to see two figures in the doorway.

One of the figures was Rarity with a look of joy and adoration on her face. The other, with only shock on hers...

...Was Apple Bloom.

Applejack's eyes widened as she moved away from Phoenix, who understood immediately.

"Why were you two...?" Apple Bloom asked softly.

"We were... Uh... R-rehearsin' a play! Yeah! That's just one o' the scenes!" Applejack exclaimed nervously as she had a large smile on her face. Phoenix placed his hoof on her shoulder to get her attention.

"AJ... She knows." Phoenix said simply.

"Well... Ya never know..." Applejack argued weakly. Phoenix lightly tapped his temple with his hoof.

"Yes, I do." Phoenix replied. Applejack sighed before motioning Apple Bloom to come closer, Rarity in tow.

"Alright, Bloom. Ah'm gonna tell the truth. Phoenix is mah... special somepony." Applejack admitted.

"Why didn't both o' you just tell us?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Ah was just waitin' for the right moment to tell you." Applejack said.

"And I never said anything, because I felt that you'd want to hear it from your sister rather than me." Phoenix continued.

"Ah guess... How long's it been goin' on?" Apple Bloom asked.

"About a month now. Ah really was gonna tell you." Applejack said.

"Well, now Ah know. Are ya gonna tell Big Mac an' Granny Smith now?" Apple Bloom asked.

"Ah guess we've got no choice now." Applejack said with a small amount of dread.

"We'll do it after Pinkie Pie's party. We've still got so much to prepare." Phoenix said.

"Ok. Can Ah tell Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo?" Apple Bloom asked as she prepared to leave.

"As long as the three of you don't tell anypony else before we talk to Macintosh and Granny Smith." Phoenix replied. Apple Bloom nodded and walked out of the barn as Rarity squealed and hugged both of them.

"That was so adorable! What brought on the kiss? Was it good? Was it magical? Details, darlings! Details!" Rarity exclaimed. Both Phoenix and Applejack blushed profusely at the personal questions that Rarity was asking.

"W-we're not gonna answer that question, Rarity." Applejack said with embarrassed finality. Rarity simply squealed with excitement.

"That means it was good! Eeeeeh!!!" Rarity squealed again. Phoenix blushed again as he shyly looked towards Applejack.

"...Was it?" Phoenix asked quietly. Applejack looked back at him, blushed and brushed her hoof against the ground shyly.

"Y-yeah. It was really good." Applejack whispered with a shy smile. Phoenix tried to fight it, but he eventually allowed a shy, slightly proud smile on his face.

"Oh, you two are just adorable!" Rarity exclaimed. The two blushed once more before the three of them began to prepare for the party. Rarity headed out to begin her part of the mission before more and more of their friends started to arrive starting with Twilight, then Rarity returned and then Fluttershy arrived. However, some complications arose when Rainbow Dash came zooming through the barn doors and Applejack closed them.

"I know you're IN THERE!!" Pinkie yelled through the door. Applejack signalled for everypony to stay quiet before she opened the door slightly and answered Pinkie.

"Oh, uh. Howdy, partner!" Applejack said, trying to sound casual.

"Mind if I... take a look inside the barn?" Pinkie asked angrily.

"No! Uh, Ah mean, yes, Ah mean... You can't come in here." Applejack said with finality.

"Rainbow Dash just went in there." Pinkie countered. Phoenix knew that Applejack would have trouble getting rid of Pinkie, so he disobeyed her and walked into Pinkie's sight.

"She already left through the skylight while you were speaking with Applejack." Phoenix lied with a straight face. Applejack looked shocked for a moment, but became calmer as the lie was better than anything she could come up with.

"She did? Then... why can't I come into the barn?!" Pinkie asked angrily. Before Phoenix could answer, Applejack answered first.

"Oh, we were just havin' some... alone time." Applejack said with a nervous smile as she wrapped her hoof around Phoenix. After a moment of shock, Phoenix reciprocated the action.

"So? That doesn't mean I shouldn't come in." Pinkie accused, her tone unchanging.

"No, sugarcube, Ah mean... alone alone time." Applejack said as she bumped her flank against Phoenix's, causing his entire face to turn a deep shade of red. Pinkie finally understood what she meant as she blushed also.

"Oh... Yeah, I don't wanna go in." Pinkie said quickly as she scuttled away, embarrassed. Applejack and Phoenix exhaled as they closed the barn door, placed their backs to it and slid to the floor on their haunches.

"'Alone alone time'?" Phoenix asked her, careful not to speak too loudly.

"Oh, shut it. It got her to leave, didn't it?" Applejack replied. After half an hour of preparing the decorations and the girls teasing both Phoenix and Applejack, they were ready to get Pinkie. After Phoenix volunteered to get her, he walked back to town and reached Sugarcube Corner. He ascended the stairs and knocked the door to Pinkie's room. He heard Pinkie's voice from the inside, so Phoenix opened the door to see a rather crude, unsettling party Pinkie was having with inanimate objects.

"Sorry I couldn't talk to you earlier, Pinkie Pie. Applejack and I felt rather guilty after we made you leave like that." Phoenix said apologetically.

"Uh-huh..." Pinkie said through gritted teeth.

"Indeed... So, we decided to invite you over to Sweet Apple Acres for some pie, as means of an apology." Phoenix continued, a little unnerved.

"No, thanks. I'm spending time with my real friends. Isn't that right, Madame le Flour? Oui! Zat is correct, madame!" Pinkie said as herself, then as 'Madame le Flour'.

"...A bag of flour, a pile of rocks, a bucket of turnips and a clump of lint?" Phoenix asked.

"Yes." Pinkie replied.

"...Well, that beats my fanfiction. Pinkie, I really must insist." Phoenix said.

"She's not goin' anywhere. I most certainly am not! I'm having a wonderful time here." Pinkie said. Phoenix sighed before replying.

"If you don't come with me, I'll pick you up and carry you out. And you don't have a ball pit to escape from me like last time." Phoenix threatened. Pinkie looked around herself to see that there really was no nearby ball pit to aid her escape.

"Rats. I'll kick and scream as much as I need to to escape." Pinkie said with finality.

"You want to do this the hard way? Fine. Ahem. Soap." Phoenix said after clearing his throat. Suddenly, Pinkie's body became completely stiff as her face became completely non-expressive and her eyes were looking in different directions. Phoenix then grabbed her and a slice of cake in his magic and carried her to Sweet Apple Acres. Dropping her in front of the barn, Phoenix waved the cake in front of Pinkie's nose, wafting its scent in front of her. After a moment, she regained her expressions, movement and her sense of direction. Before she could protest, Phoenix pushed her inside, where a chorus of 'surprise' sounded. Pinkie was less than pleased as she was under the assumption that Phoenix and the girls had staged a going away party for Pinkie as they were lying to her all day. The girls then began to explain the necessity of the deceptions in order to make it a surprise. When Pinkie was wondering why the party was taking place, Phoenix chuckled, catching her attention.

"I swear, Pinkie, you forget every year." Phoenix said. In that instant, Pinkie's hair flared into its normal poofiness and hugged everypony else in the barn.

"Because it's my birthday! Ooh, how could I have forgotten my own birthday?" Pinkie exclaimed. After some apologies from everypony, the party began and continued for hours. Even Pinkie was a little tired at the end of it. After the party, true to their words, Applejack and Phoenix stood at the threshold of the Apple family home.

"Well, this is it." Phoenix said worriedly.

"Don't worry, Phoenix. Ah think you're amazing. If that ain't enough for mah family, they'll just have to live with it." Applejack replied.

"Applejack, I know how much family means to you. You don't have to put me before them." Phoenix replied looking into her eyes. Applejack remained silent for a moment before smiling.

"It's moments like this that make me wonder why Ah was ever worried 'bout them not acceptin' you." Applejack said before she gave him a peck on the lips. Phoenix blushed slightly and rubbed the back of his neck with his hoof as Applejack opened the door and walked inside, Phoenix following close behind.





Beata O' Luna,
You know I am a perfect man.
Of my virtues I'm immensely proud.

Beata O' Luna,
You know I'm so much purer than,
The common, vulgar, weak, licentious crowd.

Then tell me, O' Luna,
Why I see her standing there,
Why her sapphire eyes still scorch my soul.

I feel her, I see her,
The sun caught in purple hair,
Is blazing in me out of all control!

Like fire!
Hellfire.
This fire in my skin.
This burning,
Desire,
Is turning me to sin.

It's not my fault!
I'm not to blame!
It is the peasant girl,
The witch who sent this flame!

It's not my fault!
If in Faust's plan,
She made the devil so much,
Stronger than a man!

Protect me, O' Luna!
Don't let this siren cast her spell,
Don't let her fire sear my flesh and bone.
Destroy Rarity Belle!
And let her taste the fires of hell!
Or else let her be mine and mine alone.

The doors opened to reveal a royal messenger.

"Your highness, we have just received word that the bearers of the Elements of Harmony will be attending tomorrow's gala. We informed you as soon as we received word, just as you requested." The messenger stated.

"Excellent. Now, leave. I must prepare for the gala." Prince Blueblood replied. The messenger nodded and left Blueblood's bedchambers as Blueblood turned back to his fireplace.

Hellfire.
Dark fire.
Now peasant, it's your turn.
Choose me or,
Your pyre.
Be mine or you will burn!

Faust have mercy on her...

Faust have mercy on me...

But she will be mine,
Or Ponyville... will... BURN!!!
> The Best Night Ever
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"No. Ah ain't talkin' to him 'til he apologises for what he said!" Applejack replied to Rarity's question.

"Come now, darling. It couldn't be that bad." Rarity comforted.

"No, it was bad. Ah never thought he'd ever say anythin' so hurtful!" Applejack replied in an offended tone.

"I have to admit, for as long as I've known him, I never thought he'd say anything like that." Twilight said.

"Thank you! Ah know Ah'm not overreactin'!" Applejack replied, exasperated.

"Have you seen him since last night?" Rainbow asked.

"No. But, maybe that's what's best for now." Applejack replied. As she said that, Phoenix entered Sugarcube Corner and the girls' attention. He slowly walked towards the table and asked to take a seat. When they allowed him to sit, he seemed to slump down and have no energy in him at all. His fedora's brim was draped over his eyes, hiding them from sight as he sluggishly moved.

"Phoenix, are you alright, darling?" Rarity asked uneasily, knowing what was wrong.

"...Couldn't sleep." Phoenix replied.

"...Where's Apple Bloom?" Applejack asked.

"...She's out playing with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo." Phoenix replied a little gloomier than before. Applejack sighed before speaking again.

"C'mon, Phoenix. Talk to me. You know Ah don't believe what Big Mac said." Applejack said soothingly. Phoenix visibly flinched at her words.

"What happened? Why did Big Mac say what he did?" Fluttershy shyly asked. Phoenix sighed quietly to himself as Applejack placed her hoof on his shoulder.

"Ah'll tell 'em, sugarcube." Applejack said softly. After Phoenix nodded, Applejack cleared her throat.





Phoenix and Applejack entered the farmhouse to see Big Mac, Apple Bloom and Granny Smith all gathered in the kitchen. As Applejack and Phoenix entered the kitchen, Applejack greeted the family.

"Howdy y'all." Applejack greeted.

"Howdy, Applejack. Little Apple Bloom here says that you've got somethin' to tell us?" Granny Smith asked.

"Yeah... Y'all remember Phoenix, right?" Applejack asked to which the family nodded. Applejack and Phoenix took a seat before Applejack continued.

"Well.. He an' Ah are... seein'  each other." Applejack said softly.

...Ting...

That was the pin dropping.

"...How long?" Granny Smith asked.

"About a month now." Applejack replied.

"Why not tell us sooner?" Granny Smith asked.

"Well... After Caramel... Ah wanted to be sure that the relationship would work before tellin' you." Applejack said uneasily. Phoenix opened his mouth in Applejack's direction before closing it and looking up in thought. After a few seconds later, his gaze returned to Applejack with a much more relaxed expression.

"Yeah, that's fair enough." Phoenix said calmly. 

"Have you sinned?" Granny Smith asked, causing Phoenix and Applejack to blush deeply.

"N-no! We've never- Ah mean we haven't-!" Applejack continued to stammer as Phoenix seemed to recover.

"No, Miss Smith, we haven't done anything... like that. I promise you." Phoenix said seriously, but was immediately confused when Granny Smith began to laugh.

"The looks on your faces! Oh, it's been a while since Ah've been able to tease anypony." Granny Smith said with a wide smile. While Applejack looked a mix of embarrassed and offended, Phoenix merely looked impressed.

"I should have seen it coming. I can normally see through deceptions quite quickly, but you got me when I wasn't expecting it. Kudos." Phoenix congratulated with a smile.

"At least Ah know you can take a joke. Celestia knows Caramel couldn't." Granny Smith said, seeming to warm up to the stallion.

"How so?" Phoenix asked.

"Well, you know how you take a lotta things seriously, but you can take a joke?" Applejack asked him.

"Yeah?" Phoenix replied.

"Well, Caramel took everything  seriously." Applejack continued.

"Ah. I see. Sounds a tad boring. And coming from me, that's saying a lot." Phoenix said. 

"Ah know. You know Ah'd never say a thing against you, Applejack, but Ah didn't like that feller at all." Granny Smith said, joing the conversation once more.

"Really? Y'know you coulda said somethin', Granny." Applejack said.

"Yeah. I've said to her before: 'you don't have to put me before your family, I know how much they mean to you'." Phoenix quoted himself.

"...Well, gotta say, you're turnin' out better than Ah thought you would, sonny. Ah say you can go ahead and date mah granddaughter, but nonna that hanky-panky, y'hear?" Granny Smith said teasingly, causing Phoenix and Applejack to do four things. Smile, blush, nod and facehoof. In that order.

"Nope." A deep voice piped up. Big Mac was stood at full height looking less than pleased.

"What's wrong, Big Mac?" Apple Bloom asked with a slightly worried expression.

"After what AJ's told us about this guy an' his past, you're gonna accept him?" Big Mac asked exasperatedly. Phoenix looked back at Applejack after hearing what he said.

"Ah... may or may not have... told them your Cutie Mark story before Ah went to your trial. They seemed ok with you still bein' mah friend... Please, don't be mad." Applejack explained somewhat weakly.

"AJ. I'm not mad. The reason I turned myself in to the authorities and stood trial was to make the truth inarguable. So, telling the story to your family doesn't bother me. True, the story still hurts me, but it doesn't bother me who knows or tells it." Phoenix said with a calming smile, causing Applejack to calm down and smile back.

"Stop doin' that!" Big Mac said angrily, albeit quietly. Phoenix looked to him in confusion.

"Stop doing what?" Phoenix asked.

"Usin' that 'silver tongue' as mah sister calls it. You're jus' gonna end up usin' it to control her or worse!" Big Mac accused angrily. Everypony visibly flinched at his words.

"...That's a bit harsh, don't you think? The only reason I've ever spoken that way was to either make Applejack laugh or to make her feel better about something. Never for something so... heartless." Phoenix explained.

"Well, after what Ah've heard about your upbringin' Ah wouldn't put it past you. Ah'm not lettin' mah sister get hurt again 'cause of a smooth talkin', self-destructive trickster!" Big Mac said aggressively. Everypony seemed to freeze as Phoenix's eyes darkened with anger.

"...What was that about my upbringing?" Phoenix asked, his voice barely above a whisper, but the restrained anger was evident in it.

"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. From what Ah've heard about your folks, Ah wouldn't trust you with a toothbrush, forget mah sister!" Big Mac said with the same aggression. Applejack was holding onto Apple Bloom and looked to Phoenix with a slight amount of fear. She'd seen him explode with anger before and she knew it wasn't pretty. Phoenix merely inhaled slowly and exhaled even slower, before turning and walked to the front door and opened it.

"I'm not staying here to be insulted for things I'm not guilty of or be the subject of any prejudices. Anypony who wants to join me is welcome." Phoenix said seriously before walking out. Big Mac sighed before turning back on his family only to see them looking at him with looks of fear, anger and disappointment on their faces. A few seconds later, Applejack let go of Apple Bloom and walked out of the door despite her brother's protests. Granny Smith began to walk up the stairs a few seconds later and not long after that, Apple Bloom followed Applejack, leaving Big Mac alone. Both of the Apple sisters caught up with Phoenix as the three of them were walking away from the farm.

"We'll stay at my house tonight. When we get there, just make yourselves at home." Phoenix said with near to no expression. The remainder of the walk was in silence.





"Wow. No, you're not overreacting, darling." Rarity said to Applejack.

"Told ya so." Applejack replied.

"In fact, I think you're underreacting, Phoenix." Rarity said to the sulking stallion.

"Well, if I  had overreacted, I would have killed him. I think my reaction was the best for everypony." Phoenix said. Rarity cleared her throat slightly.

"Right, yes. Fair enough. Actually, Phoenix, I meant to say: you're suit has finally been completed." Rarity said. Phoenix seemed to perk up slightly as the two of them exited Sugarcube Corner and began to head to Carousel Boutique. As the entered, Rarity giddily rushed across the room and unveiled her creation to Phoenix. It was a crystal white shirt under a sharp, black waistcoat with a black necktie around the collar. Covering that was a black suit jacket and a black trench coat to top it all off. To Phoenix, it looked incredible. He was in awe as he walked slowly forward to inspect it further. He was; of course, going to accept the gift regardless of how it looked. But, it looked simply amazing. He slowly turned to see Rarity looking at him in anticipation with a slight bead of sweat on her temple.

"Well? W-what do you think?" Rarity asked, trying to hold her nervous stutter. Phoenix turned completely to Rarity and smiled. As Rarity was about to breath a sigh of relief, Phoenix wrapped her up in a hug. She squeaked in surprise as he lifted her and spun her continuously before putting her down again.

"I... take it you like it, then?" Rarity asked, trying to recover from her shock.

"Rarity, it's incredible. I'm going to wear it with nothing but pride. Thank you. Thank you so much." Phoenix said with excitement.

"Oh, Phoenix, thank you. It warms my heart to know I've made up for my mistake. And don't say I didn't have to, because my conscience wouldn't allow me leave it uncorrected." Rarity said before Phoenix could interrupt. Phoenix sighed and released a single chuckle and a smile.

"Alright, alright. Thank you, Rarity. Consider the mistake corrected." Phoenix said gratefully.

"Excellent! Well, what are you waiting for?! Put it on! Put it on!" Rarity instructed excitedly. She began to excitedly push Phoenix towards her changing room, suit in tow, held aloft by her magic. After being pushed into the changing room and having the suit thrust into his hooves, Phoenix took a moment to recover before letting out single chuckle and began to change. Not long before he finished donning the suit, he could hear the rest of the girls entering the shop and Rarity telling them that he was changing. When he finished, he took one last look at himself in the mirror, but frowned slightly.

'Something's missing...' Phoenix thought to himself. He stared for a moment before his gaze met his fedora. He used his magic to place it on his head and he thought that suited the outfit rather well. Due to the palette being black and white, the hat didn't stand out more than it should have. In fact, due to it hiding his eyes and the coat being long enough to hide his cutie mark, it made Phoenix look monochromic, thus giving his bright, blue eyes a piercing quality. Upon more inspection, the outfit reminded him of old pictures of the famous gangster: Al Capony. Happy with his look, he walked out of the changing room and allowed the five girls present to see him. He immediately drew everypony's attention and held it. Rainbow, Fluttershy, Twilight and Rarity all stared wide-eyed with very light blushes. Pinkie, on the other hoof looked at him, gave an impressed look and wolf whistled.

"Thank you, thank you, ladies. How do I look?" Phoenix jokingly soaked in imaginary applause before asking his question. Rarity seemed to recover before glancing around and turning back to Phoenix.

"Well, I can summarise it in three word, darling." Rarity said.

"And what are they, Rarity?" Phoenix asked. Rarity simply closed her eyes.

"Applejack, you're drooling." Rarity said with her voice slightly raised. A surprised gasp came from the doorway where Applejack was standing, frantically wiping her mouth.

"Ah was not." Applejack argued weakly, unable to keep the blush from her face.

"How do you think I look, AJ?" Phoenix asked, trying to sound confident, but his shyness was still detectable.

"...W-well, you look... (whew, is it hot in here?) Ah think you look great, sugarcube." Applejack said with a blush after stumbling over her words slightly and muttering something under her breath. Phoenix shyly rubbed the back of his neck with his hoof as he smiled.

"Thanks, Applejack..." Phoenix said shyly. After Phoenix's transformation, the girls began their preparations for the gala. Everypony gathered around Twilight as Fluttershy brought a group of mice and Applejack brought an apple. Twilight used her magic to transform the apple into a carriage and the mice into horses. Very... odd, buck-toothed horses. Suddenly, Opal hissed and began to chase them as if they were... well... mice.

"Wait! Come back! Those horses were supposed to pull our carriage. How will we get to the Gala?" Twilight asked worriedly. Everypony then turned to Phoenix. He looked back at them for a moment before rolling his eyes and sighing.

"Alright..." Phoenix said. After the transport was prepared the girls began to prepare themselves for the night ahead. Phoenix waited outside of the room the girls were changing in with Spike approaching the door.

"Come on, you guys. Let me in!" Spike said through the door.

"Sure thing, Spike." Rainbow Dash said from the other side.

"Heavens, no! We're getting dressed." Rarity said, slightly distressed.

"Dressed? Uh, beg pardon, Rarity, but, uh... we don't normally wear clothes." Applejack said to Rarity, causing Phoenix to draw his attention to the door.

"...And with that mental image, I may need to take a cold shower." Phoenix said before he walked away. Disregarding the thoughts and his joke, he walked outside to wait by the carriage.

"Uh... excuse me, sir? You're not a gangster, are you?" A scared voice asked from behind Phoenix. He turned to see Ditzy Doo shaking slightly as she stared at the stallion. Phoenix simply chuckled and tilted his hat enough for her to see the whole of his face.

"Ditzy, it's me." Phoenix said with a kind smile, causing her to widen her eyes in surprise for a moment before smiling widely.

"Oh! Phoenix! I thought you were a gangster! You look like one of those old movie mafia guys!" Ditzy said excitedly, filled with relief.

"Do I look black-and-white?" Phoenix asked with a smile.

"Yeah! That's what I was thinking! Why are you dressed like that?" Ditzy asked.

"I'm going to head for the gala when the girls are ready." Phoenix replied.

"Ooh! I really hope you guys have fun!" Ditzy said happily. Phoenix gave her a side hug as he returned her smile.

"Thank you, Ditzy. I'm sure we will." Phoenix said.

"Cool, now, I'd better... oh, wow..." Ditzy stopped mid-sentence to look behind Phoenix. The stallion turned to see five beautiful mares clad in beautiful dresses. And one goddess that he happened to be dating. Upon seeing Applejack, Phoenix's heart began quicken its pace in his chest, his jaw dropped slightly and eyes couldn't move from her as his cheeks began to heat up. The girls caught him looking at Applejack, causing the five of them to giggle lightly while Applejack simply blushed lightly. After Phoenix managed to recover and the girls were finished teasing him, Phoenix and Spike helped them into the carriage before Phoenix attached himself to the front and Spike sat in the driver seat.

"So, what're you planning on doing at the gala, Phoenix?" Spike asked as they headed towards Canterlot.

"Well... I heard my sister will be part of the entertainment, so I might say hello to her. I might say hi to the princesses. But, I don't know other than that. I'll just play it by ear." Phoenix replied.

"Well, I could show you around my favourite spots in Canterlot since the girls have their own plans." Spike proposed, slightly hoping for the answer he wanted.

"Well, greeting my sister won't take long and greeting the princesses would take a while. And, despite going there now-and-then, I never sightsee in Canterlot. So, sure, Spike. I'd like to see what you have to offer." Phoenix replied. Spike smiled as he gripped the reigns tighter.

"Well, it won't matter if we never get there! Hyah, Phoenix!" Spike said with excitement, whipping the reigns across Phoenix's backside. He continued to walk, but he looked back at Spike with a glare.

"...Sorry." Spike said weakly.

"Kids these days." Phoenix muttered as he turned back around. Throughout the journey, the silence was constantly broken by the excited chatter of the girls inside the carriage. After a few minutes, they reached the entrance for carriages. Spike hopped from his seat and opened the door allowing the girls to exit the carriage. Phoenix couldn't stop as he had to continue walking to park the carriage. Eventually, he reached an open space where everypony was leaving their transportation, leading Phoenix to leave the carriage in an unoccupied space and head towards the castle. As he entered, he saw Spike on his own in the entrance hall looking rather down.

"Spike, why are you on your own? Where are the girls?" Phoenix asked.

"Oh. Hi, Phoenix. They just kinda ditched me." Spike said with annoyance.

"Well, I'm sure they were just excited. Come on, how about we greet my sister and then we'll see some of the things you wanted to show me?" Phoenix said caringly. Spike seemed to perk up as he nodded. As they walked into the great hall, Phoenix noticed that it was very crowded, leading him to tell Spike to stay close to him. They walked closer to the stage to see the Canterlot Symphony Quartet playing calm music for the party. As they finished, before they could begin playing again, Phoenix spoke out.

"I don't suppose I could interrupt you, could I?" Phoenix said, tilting his hat. Octavia looked to him and actually smiled as she placed her cello down and jumped from the stage into Phoenix's forelegs.

"Phoenix, it's so good to see you. What are you doing here?" Octavia asked.

"I have a ticket. I just came by to say hello. Octavia, this is Spike. Spike, this is my sister, Octavia." Phoenix introduced. Octavia shook Spike's claw as he stared at her.

"You're so... beautiful." Spike said, in a trance-like tone. Octavia simply giggled.

"Yes, my girlfriend thinks so too." Octavia said with a smile. Spike blushed as he rubbed the back of his neck as Phoenix chuckled.

"Sorry." Spike said, slightly ashamed.

"It's quite alright, young man. You didn't do anything wrong." Octavia said soothingly. She looked around to see several nobles looking at them with annoyance.

"I suppose we should get back to it, then. Thank you for saying hello, Phoenix. I hope to see you later. And you too, Spike." Octavia said as she walked back onto the stage and readied her cello once more. Phoenix and Spike waved as they walked away. Spike began to lead Phoenix to Celestia's golden apple tree when a stallion blocked their path.

"Cognito?" Phoenix asked, recognising him from the trial. Cognito looked at him with his somewhat lifeless eyes.

"You're the same as me." Cognito said monotonously.

"...You mean... the abilities?" Phoenix asked. Cognito gave a single nod before looking around.

"There are some ponies here that I don't trust." Cognito said, straight to the point.

"What do you mean?" Phoenix asked while Spike remained behind him.

"I have listened to the minds of others around the gala. I don't like the nobles, but there is one in particular that has disgusting things on his mind." Cognito said.

"Whom? What are they thinking?" Phoenix asked.

"...Why do you wish to know? What if it doesn't concern you?" Cognito asked as he tilted his head.

"I don't care. When you say things like that it becomes my concern." Phoenix replied. Cognito stared for a moment or two before untiting his head.

"...I see. The one who had the horrific thoughts was Princess Celestia's nephew: Prince Blueblood." Cognito said.

"Blueblood?! T-that's the guy that Rarity's with!" Spike said with horror.

"Cognito, please. This really does involve me now. One of my friends could be in horrible danger. Please, tell me what he was thinking." Phoenix said seriously.

"...He plans on making her his own. Whether she is willing or not." Cognito said.

"...You don't mean..." Phoenix didn't dare answer, but Cognito nodded gravely.

"What? What's he gonna do?" Spike asked fearfully.

"Nothing, Spike. Because we're going to stop him! Where is he now, Cognito?" Phoenix asked.

"I'm afraid I don't know." Cognito said, still monotonously.

"Damn. We'll have to wander around and see if we can find them. Thank you, Cognito. Come on, Spike!" Phoenix said as he and Spike began to move through the crowd to begin their search. Cognito stayed in place with his eyes widened slightly for a moment.

"...You're welcome." Cognito muttered to himself. He'd never been thanked like that before. Like a... friend...

Phoenix and Spike rushed through several crowds, avoiding several ponies in an attempt to find Rarity and Blueblood. Eventually they stood, exhausted outside the great hall.

"We're never gonna find them!" Spike panted.

"I guess I'll have to use my last trick." Phoenix said before he closed his eyes and strained his mind and heard many voices flowing through his mind. His head began to ache as he strained further to try to find any trace of their targets.

'This isn't at all what I imagined.' Rarity's voice echoed through his mind.

"Got her." Phoenix said as he and Spike began to run towards the royal gardens. As they reached the entrance to the gardens, they pushed through the doors and looked around frantically. The searched for a further minute or so before they finally found them by Applejack's stall. Blueblood began to walk towards the entrance to the great hall as Phoenix began to read his mind.

'Ugh. Disgusting commoners' trash. After I clean my mouth of this insult to food, I will finally make Rarity Belle mine... By force if need be.' Blueblood thought as different visual thoughts entered Phoenix's mind as well. And he immediately felt sick.

"Oh, Faust. We've got to stop him, Spike!" Phoenix said with urgency.

"Why? What's he gonna do?!" Spike asked fearfully as Phoenix began to walk to intercept the prince.

"You're too young to know, that's how bad it is!" Phoenix called back as Spike followed. Phoenix stood in front of Blueblood causing him to stop and Rarity to keep up.

"...What do you want, commoner?" Blueblood asked rudely.

"I want you to step away from the lady." Phoenix replied, Spike standing next to him, trying to look formidable. Rarity looked confused, while Blueblood looked offended.

"Why should I do that, you piece of mediocre garbage? I'm a prince! What are you going to do?!" Blueblood shouted, but it came across as more of a whine.

"When my friend's safety and virginity are at stake, you'd be surprised how... persuasive I can get." Phoenix said darkly, causing Rarity and Spike to look at the stallion in horror, while Blueblood began to sweat.

"I-I wasn't going to do anything... like that with him, Phoenix." Rarity said.

"I know. But, he was dead set on it. With or without your consent." Phoenix said to Rarity with a slightly disgusted expression that he kept aiming at Blueblood. Rarity's face turned a mixture of both a slight pinch of red and a lot of green. She immediately moved away from Blueblood and stood next to Phoenix and Spike.

"Lady Rarity! You don't really believe this gutter-snipe, do you?!" Blueblood asked exasperatedly, while more sweat poured down his face.

"I know Phoenix is many things. But, he is not a liar. He can bluff to save his life, but he knows the value of the truth. You won't be getting anything more from me, not even my time." Rarity said as she began to walk away. Blueblood tried to walk after her, but Phoenix stood in his way once more.

"Cock-blocked, Blueblood. Walk away." Phoenix said simply. Blueblood growled before holding Phoenix in his magic and threw him through the stain-glass window of the great hall. Phoenix screamed as the window shattered and he landed on the hard floor by doing a recovery roll and getting to his hooves instantly and cracking his neck twice. He then looked to the door to see Blueblood entering and approaching him with a look of fury on his face. Phoenix looked towards Octavia and her bandmates.

"Hey, guys, can you play a nice beat to beat this guy's ass to?" Phoenix asked with a smirk. The quartet looked at each other before beginning to play. Phoenix nodded in time with beat as he turned to see Blueblood drawing ever closer. As he was close to him, Blueblood tried to backhoof him, however, Phoenix simply dodged quickly. Blueblood recovered and attempted another attack only for it to be dodged again. Phoenix seemed to be straining his eyes slightly, but, that look slowly faded away as the one-sided fight continued. Phoenix realised that the more he used his power, the less pain he felt when he used it each time. Therefore, he used his power to read Blueblood's mind to see what attack he would try next and be sure to not let it hit. Finally, Blueblood attempted to hit Phoenix in the face, but stopped when Phoenix grabbed Blueblood's hoof in it's tracks. He then took one swing with his other hoof and punched Blueblood square in the muzzle. Blueblood fell onto his back holding his muzzle as blood began to pour from it.

"Huh. I guess 'Blueblood' isn't literal, then." Phoenix said as he gave his suit a quick brush with his hoof. Blueblood jumped to his hooves with one of them still covering his muzzle.

"Guards! Guards! Arrest this plebeian wretch!" Blueblood yelled to the guards around the room.

"That will not be necessary." A voice said from behind Blueblood. Everypony turned to see Princess Celestia looking at Phoenix and Blueblood with a slightly angered expression with the element bearers and Spike by her side.

"Aunty! Thank Faust. Please, banish this ingrate for what he's done to me!" Blueblood whined.

"Wow, you'll never run out of things to call me, will you?" Phoenix said. Celestia walked towards the two stallions until she wasn't more than a few feet away from them.

"I have been told the whole story. I have never been more disgusted than I am with you, Blueblood." Celestia said. Blueblood looked completely dumbfounded.

"But- but, I didn't do anything wrong! I merely wanted what was rightfully mine and this animal ends up striking me!" Blueblood whined. Phoenix slowly turned his head to look at Blueblood.

"...Were you dropped as a foal? Do you really think you can lie to her?" Phoenix said, half annoyed, half genuinely curious.

"I couldn't have said it better myself. I know everything that happened. Guards, please take Prince Blueblood to the dungeon. A night in a cell might teach him some manners." Celestia said rather coldly. As the guards dragged the kicking and screaming prince to the dungeon, the group decided to leave under the fact that the gala wasn't everything they made it out to be. The bade their goodbyes to Celestia before preparing the carriage and heading back to Ponyville. Listening in on some of the girls' stories about the evening, Spike realised that their night really didn't turn out that well.

"Well, Spike... I think they focused on how the night would be great because of their desires as individuals. But, in about... five minutes, I reckon that they'll discover what each of them needed to make the night great and memorable." Phoenix explained when Spike pointed out his realisation.

"What do you mean? What did they need?" Spike asked. Phoenix turned his head to look at Spike with a smile.

"Each other." Phoenix replied before turning his head back. As the journey progressed the conversations between the girls in the carriage began to become more jolly and joyous as they laughed at the night they just had and were simply enjoying the company of their friends. After they arrived in Ponyville and Twilight reverted the carriage back into an apple, they all decided to go their separate ways and get some much needed rest. Phoenix then offered to walk Applejack back to the 'Acres. A part of her didn't want to see her brother, but she knew that it was inevitable. As the distance between them and the orchard got ever smaller, the conversation finally went to a subject that Phoenix had wanted to talk about for a while.

"So... We actually kissed yesterday." Phoenix said awkwardly with a blush. Applejack blushed too before she responded.

"Yeah. It was your first, wasn't it?" Applejack asked.

"Y-yeah, it was." Phoenix replied.

"Well... how was it?"

"What?" Phoenix asked as his face grew more and more red.

"How was it?" Applejack asked again. Phoenix seemed to try to remember exactly how it felt, before his face blushed intensely as he had a serene smile on his face.

"It was... indescribable."

"So, you enjoyed it too, then?" Applejack asked with a blush of her own.

"Yeah, I really, really di-. Wait a minute. 'Too'? So... you liked it too?" Phoenix asked as they stopped in front of the farmhouse.

"...Yeah. Ah loved it. Ah even liked when you put your hooves on mah h-. Ah mean-! Ah mean Ah liked it, yeah." Applejack said as her own blush intensified.

"You liked it when I put my hooves on your hips?" Phoenix asked.

"...Yeah. Don't ask why. It just felt... nice." Applejack replied. They both fell into silence as the farmhouse door was beckoning for Applejack. She was about to go to the door but, she instead turned and once again pushed her lips to Phoenix's. Once again, he was surprised but the overwhelming pleasure from the kiss soothed his thoughts. After a minute that felt like an hour, their lips separated and Applejack walked to the door. Before she entered she turned and shyly waved at Phoenix, causing him to wave and smile shyly back. After she'd disappeared into the farmhouse, Phoenix turned and began to giddily walk back to town. He felt virtually weightless. The tingling sensation on his lips and in his mind was a constant reminder to the wonderful mare that he loved. Phoenix was alone in his thoughts as his eyes were on the moon, but his mind was on Applejack.

'If this is what it's like to be in love, then every night will be as great as this. Hell, maybe one could class it as... the best night ever...'
> The End
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Phoenix sighed as he walked through Ponyville, an uneasy feeling in his stomach. He'd felt it all morning, but the fresh air wasn't helping him as much as he thought it would. He looked up to the cloudy sky and took a deep breath. Until he felt something liquid hit his muzzle. He scraped the small amount of liquid off of his face and looked at it.

"...Chocolate?" Phoenix said under his breath in confusion. He looked around to see a large gathering of pink clouds above Sweet Apple Acres. He began to trot towards the Acres, only to see a rainbow blur gather up the clouds and bring down to the ground. He slowed his pace to a quick walk until he saw the girls heading towards him. When they showed no signs of stopping, Phoenix matched their pace and ran with them.

"What the hell's going on?" Phoenix asked.

"A lot of crazy stuff's happening! We're on our way to the train station to get to Canterlot. The princesses will know what to do." Twilight said.

"Right. Sounds like a job for the Elements. Do you think the town's in danger?" Phoenix asked seriously.

"...Maybe. We just don't know." Twilight asked, suddenly concerned.

"Alright... You guys keep heading to Canterlot, I'll stay behind and evacuate the town if need be." Phoenix instructed. They all nodded and Applejack gave him a quick kiss on the lips as Phoenix began to slow down and the girls continued to gallop to the station. Phoenix ran to the centre of town to see many ponies panicking about the abnormal weather. After nearly fifteen minutes of searching, he caught sight of the mayor and approached her.

"Mayor, we need to get everypony together so we can make our next move together and we won't leave anypony." Phoenix said over the commotion. Mayor Mare stopped and thought for a moment or two before replying.

"I think that's a good idea, Mr Fortesque. But, what's your plan to get everypony together in one place?" Mayor Mare asked. Phoenix simply pulled out his revolver casually, causing the mayor to recoil in shock and fear. Phoenix fired a shot into the air, causing everypony to stop dead in their tracks and silence fell completely.

"Everypony, calm down. We're all going to meet outside town hall to discuss what we should do like civilised, rational ponies. Everypony is to attend. There will be NO stragglers!" Phoenix announced, his voice echoing through the town. Everypony began to move calmly to town square as Phoenix and Mayor Mare began to formulate a plan.





Discord's laughter echoed through the chamber of the Elements as Celestia looked around in worry. Moments later, Luna entered the room.

"'Tis true, then?" Luna asked with dread.

"Yes, Luna. He's back." Celestia replied gravely.

"Dost thou think that Twilight Sparkle and her friends will be enough to defeat him?" Luna asked.

"I have faith, Luna. What I'm not sure of is where the Elements are. Knowing Discord, he's put them in a crowded place." Celestia said gravely.

"No... Would he really put so many innocents at such peril?" Luna asked, praying her sister was wrong.

"To remain in control? I wouldn't put it past him. As long as Discord is isolated enough that nopony other than the bearers themselves are too close to the Elements when they activate, we don't have to worry." Celestia said with a hint of unease.

"...Then why do we feel such an uneasy feeling inside?" Luna asked. Celestia didn't reply. Silence fell between them.





The crowd outside town hall grew larger and larger until every townspony was present. Even Zecora. Mayor Mare and Phoenix stood at the front of the crowd.

"Good morning, everypony. We have devised a plan that Mr Fortesque will explain." Mayor Mare said before she walked to the side of the stage as Phoenix took centre stage.

"We don't know what's causing the anomalies with the weather, wildlife or nature. My friends left for Canterlot about twenty minutes ago to obtain the Elements of Harmony and track down what's responsible for all of this. However, we can't take any chances. Therefore, we'll partake in a temporary evacuation and relocation. We'll leave the town and wait for the problem to be resolved. Everypony gather your provisions as fast as you can and meet on the outskirts of town. Move, move, move!" Phoenix explained and instructed. Everypony quickly began to move to their respective homes to take their necessities. However, one particular mare flew up to Phoenix as he stepped from the stage.

"Phoenix, where's my daughter? Are the kids safe?" Ditzy asked with frantically worried, teary eyes.

"They're in Canterlot. They were on a school trip, remember? I sent a message to Cheerilee to keep the kids and herself safe by staying there. Everypony'll be alright, Ditzy. The girls won't let us down." Phoenix said confidently, but calmly. Ditzy seemed to calm down slightly before a young, lavender unicorn began to pull Ditzy towards their house. Phoenix looked around to see many ponies already packed and heading towards the edge of Ponyville. Phoenix turned his attention to the mayor as she emerged from her own home.

"When everypony arrives at the edge of town, can you lead them to a safe place? I'll keep an eye out and catch up with you." Phoenix said. The mayor hesitated, but nodded and began to follow the ponies out of town. Phoenix watched as many more ponies filed out of their homes, leaving Ponyville for their own safety. Phoenix waited as the crowd go further into the distance before beginning to walk after them.

"Leaving the party so soon?" A voice said from behind Phoenix. But, before he could turn around, something touched Phoenix's head and everything went black...





"Come on, girls. I'm certain this is what Discord's riddle really meant. If we get back to the library, I have a book that I just know can give us a clue. Ah!" Twilight's voice was cut off by a stampede of horse-like rabbits trampling her.

"Good boy, Angel. Mama's so proud." Fluttershy said amusedly. Suddenly the sun left the sky and was replaced by the moon.

"Wow, I can see so much better now. Whoa!" Applejack lied before slipping on the ground and ramming into the other girls.

"I meant to do that." Applejack lied again.

"Discord's turned our dirt roads into soap!" Twilight said angrily after she regained her balance as Discord soap-skated by.

"Beautiful, isn't it? This is the new and improved Ponyville, and these are only my first of changes." Discord announced as Pinkie Pie soap-skated past Twilight.

"This may look like fun, but it's not." Pinkie said grumpily.

"Picture it. The chaos capital of the world." Discord said as he lifted Twilight like she was a doll.

"I can't picture anything. It's too dark." Twilight said, not putting up with Discord's nonsense. Discord then dropped her and walked away from her.

"Well, wait a few minutes and you'll see it in the beautiful light of day. Or not." Discord said casually.

"Ponyville, the chaos capital of the world? Not if I have anything to say about it." Twilight said with determination.

"Don't worry, you won't." Fluttershy said mockingly.





Phoenix aimlessly wandered the abandoned town like a zombie in search for prey. His environment confused him so, but he paid it no mind as he continued to wander. Occasionally, he heard joyous laughter echo throughout the town and Phoenix had to suppress something within him. Eventually, he came across the library once again and took a few moments to watch the girls stood in front of the library. The girls began to leave in separate directions as Twilight looked down to the ground. Phoenix took another step forward, snapping a twig in the process. Twilight's head shot up to see Phoenix standing there and a smile appeared on her face.

"Phoenix! Am I ever glad to see you!" Twilight said as she rushed to him. Phoenix grunted slightly as he looked away before turning back to her.

"Why's that, Twilight?" Phoenix asked.

"All of our friends are different. Do you have any idea why?" Twilight asked. Phoenix grunted slightly again and his face seemed to contort slightly before returning to normal. Twilight was about to ask what was wrong, but Phoenix spoke first.

"Well, look around. Maybe it has something to do with why everything's topsy-turvy." Phoenix said.

"Maybe... Maybe it was Discord! Maybe he changed them!" Twilight realised.

"Ding-ding-ding! What do we have for her, Johnny?" Phoenix said in an overdramatic voice. Twilight looked at him in surprise before noticing something and realising something else. She finally noticed that Phoenix's eyes were grey instead of the normal sky blue. She realised that Phoenix was trying to keep a straight face and hold in laughter. Looking at the changed stallion, Twilight suddenly felt alone again. Phoenix began to giggle until it became the laughter of a madman. Twilight began to back up as Phoenix laughed with a large, terrifying smile.

"Y'know, Twi... I've been trying to learn how to rap lately." Phoenix said, his large smile intact as his pupils began to shrink.

"R-really? That's... interesting." Twilight said, still backing away. Phoenix began to match her pace to keep the distance between them the same.

"Yeah. Would you like a demonstration?" Phoenix asked. Twilight didn't reply as her gaze was on the library door as she tried to estimate how long it would take to lock herself inside.

"I can read your thoughts, Twi~." Phoenix said in a sing-song tone. Twilight's face took on a look of fear as she ran for the door and locked herself in. She sighed until she realised the massive hole in her plan. The massive hole in the wall of the library.

Which Phoenix was currently sticking his head through with a murderous look in his eyes and an almost joyous, psychotic smile on his face.

"Hey there, neighbour." Phoenix said simply, before Twilight screamed and ran to her room and barricaded herself inside. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Spike in the room with her as she heard Phoenix's voice on the other side of the door.

You're gonna die,
No one to love you and no one to cry,
Alone by yourself on the bed of your death,
With the stench of regret on your last dying breath.

'Cause you've chosen the path of a selfish fool,
With all your friends' innocent blood on your hooves,
The penance you pay for the way you behave,
Will be written as plain on the name on your grave!

After Phoenix finished spitting his rhymes, Phoenix pulled out a knife from his pocket and used his magic to stab the door. Twilight screamed again as she watched him try to cut through the door. Spike continued to writhe on the floor as more and more letters appeared in the room. Twilight quickly opened one of the scrolls to discover that it was a letter that she'd previously sent to the princess. Against her instincts, Twilight began to skim-read it as Phoenix continued to destroy the door.

"Wait... That's it! Discord's trying to distract us from what's important. He knows how powerful our friendships are, and he's trying to keep us from seeing it. Do you remember what I said the first day we arrived in Ponyville? I told you that the future of Equestria didn't rest on me making friends. But the opposite is true! The friendships I've made since I've been here are what saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon. And now they need to save it from Discord!" Twilight announced, while Spike weakly looked at the door in terror.

"That's great, Twilight, but, how does that stop HIM?!" Spike screamed. Twilight looked round to see the door in complete disarray with Phoenix still trying to break through. Twilight's horn began to glow as she gulped and rushed forward while Phoenix was distracted and pressed her head to his. Memories began to flood through Phoenix's mind. All the torture throughout his foalhood and misery through the start of his adult life. Twilight knew this and kept Phoenix in place before he could pull away.

"Just a little longer, Phoenix!" Twilight said in a strained voice. Not long after she said that, warmer memories began to flow through Phoenix. Visiting Ponyville, meeting Pinkie Pie, moving to Ponyville shortly after, meeting the girls after the Summer Sun Celebration and... Applejack. Just... Applejack. Twilight watched Phoenix worriedly as the spell finished and Phoenix clenched his eyes and stumbled, trying to recover from his sudden dizziness from the spell. As Phoenix opened his eyes again, Twilight rushed forward and threw her forelegs around his neck. His eyes and cutie mark had regained their colour.

"W... What the hell happened?" Phoenix asked, weakly.

"Discord's changed everypony into a opposite version of themselves. I just found a way to cure you. We've got to find everypony and change them back. Spike, stay here!" Twilight said urgently as she began to run out of the library with Phoenix in tow.

"I swear I'll pay for the door." Phoenix said to Twilight as they ran.

"The door? You're paying my therapy bill." Twilight replied.





Curing the other girls was rather simple. Both Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash put up a bit of a fight, but Applejack's lasso skills subdued Fluttershy and Fluttershy carrying Phoenix to grab Rainbow while she was sleeping subdued her. Wasting no time, they headed to the centre of town where Discord had erected a throne for himself. As Phoenix and the girls arrived, Discord was about to drink a glass of chocolate milk.

"Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing." Discord said to himself.

"Not as wonderful as friendship!" Twilight said, having heard him.

"Oh, this again?" Discord asked half-heartedly before drinking the glass the chocolate milk was in before throwing the solid shape of chocolate behind him, causing it to explode. Seriously.

"That's right. You couldn't break apart our friendship for long." Applejack said confidently.

"Oh, Applejack, don't lie to me. I'm the one who made you a liar. Will you ever learn?" Discord said as he used his magic to grab the girls' necklaces and pull the girls closer to him. Phoenix pulled out his revolver and shot him in the leg. Discord screamed as he dropped the girls before snapping his fingers to heal the bloody wound. Before they hit the ground, Twilight used her magic to gently bring them back over to her and Phoenix.

"I'll tell you what we've learned Discord. We've learned that friendship isn't always easy. But there's no doubt it's worth fighting for." Twilight announced. Discord went from angry to amused as he began to taunt them once more.

"Ugh, gag. Fine, go ahead, try and use your little Elements, "frenemies". Just make it quick. I'm missing some excellent chaos here." Discord said as he teleported back to his throne and took a seat.

"All right, ladies, let's show him what friendship can do!" Twilight said as Phoenix was getting ready to watch the show with his front row seat.

"Wait-wait-wait!" Pinkie said quickly as she gulped down more chocolate rain. Phoenix and the girls gave her unamused looks until she got back into formation and growled at Discord. Light suddenly emerged from the Elements as Discord yawned. Suddenly, different coloured rays of light in the shapes of the symbols on each Element radiated from each Element. But, for every light that shone, Phoenix felt stranger and stranger.

Discord began to realise that he was in trouble when the energy was being shot as beams from each Element. Twilight opened her eyes as they emitted pure white light before the rainbow beam arced in the sky and began to plummet towards Discord. Discord watched the rainbow in fear, before looking towards Phoenix and beginning to laugh. Phoenix watched as he began to feel weaker and weaker. He finally noticed that some kind of rainbow mist was emerging from his mouth and was going to the Elements. He tried to wrack his brain to figure out what was happening, but he just couldn't concentrate. Suddenly, no more mist came from his mouth.

And Phoenix fell to the ground.

After the rainbow hit Discord and became a dome over the town, reversing all of the changes, the girls gently landed on the ground. Discord's stone form was frozen in a cruel laughing pose as it fell to the ground.

"We did it, girls! We di-... Phoenix?" Twilight stopped as she saw Phoenix laying on the ground. They all gathered around him as Twilight turned him onto his back with her magic. All of them gasped at what they saw. The blank, lifeless eyes of a dead stallion. There was no scream. No sign. He was just... gone. The girls stared in horror, but Fluttershy rushed forward and began to push onto Phoenix's chest with her hooves with rhythmic intervals.

"Come on, Phoenix. Breath." Fluttershy pleaded quietly as Applejack knelt by her and began to give Phoenix the kiss of life also with regular intervals. Pinkie Pie was already sobbing along with Rarity while Twilight and Rainbow watched in teary disbelief. Twilight didn't even turn around when Celestia and Luna appeared.

"No... It's as we feared." Luna said as tears began to form in her eyes.

"What? What's happened?!" Twilight asked urgently.

"...The Elements of Harmony feed on harmonious energies from the world around them when they are used. Life itself is a form of harmonious energy. Did you never wonder why you felt so drained after the first time you used the Elements of Harmony against Nightmare Moon?" Celestia explained. When nopony replied, Luna continued the explanation with a sombre look.

"The Elements won't feed on their wielders unless they have to. Since there are six of thou, when thou used them against us, they didn't need to take much energy as there was enough in all of thou to fuel them without any damage to thou all... Unfortunately, Phoenix Fortesque was in the wrong place at the wrong time." Luna said as she used her magic to gently shut his eyelids.

"...Wrong place at the wrong time? WRONG PLACE AT THE WRONG TIME?! Didn't you think to tell us about this?! Why?! Why didn't you?!" Applejack yelled, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Please, Applejack. Nopony could have foreseen this. We didn't know where the Elements were. We didn't know Phoenix would be anywhere near you when you would use them. We just... didn't know..." Celestia began to defend herself and Luna, but her voice got steadily weaker and weaker as a single tear began to slither down Celestia's cheek. Applejack rushed forward and began to hit Celestia's chest, causing Celestia to remain still, not even flinching.

"Damn you! DAMN YOU!! Why him?! Why hi-hi-him?!" Applejack finally stopped hitting and sobbed into Celestia's chest as Celestia gently wrapped her forelegs and wings around her. The town grew silent, only broken by Applejack's sobbing...





A few days later, every Ponyvillian was gathered outside of town hall, dressed in black. In the centre of the crowd, there lay a coffin with Phoenix inside in his black gala suit with a serene look on his lifeless face. In front of the town hall, Cloud stepped forward and began to speak.

"Today, we give our attention... our honour... our respect... to the stallion who lays before us. He may have never thought highly of himself, in fact, he once told me that he knew he would die alone. But, he was wrong. He died a hero. And he is surrounded by people willing to give their respect to him. Respect he was certain he would never have. My only wish is that he could have seen how many lives he touched and made better. All the good he's done outweighed the bad things... but, he could never see that for himself. Now, he wouldn't want me to give a teary speech on what I thought of him. Because, deep down... I think we both knew." Cloud sniffed an wiped his tears before turning back to the crowd.

"Is there anything anypony would like to say?" Cloud asked. Nopony moved until one little filly walk out from the crowd and up to Cloud's microphone.

"Sweetie Belle wrote a song for me to sing to- to him. Ah dedicate this to mah sister as well. Ah know she's gonna miss him most of  all." Apple Bloom said as she sniffed and held back her tears before Sweetie Belle started the music nearby with a sombre look on her face.

The sky was falling and streaked with blood,
I heard you calling me then you disappeared into the dust.
Up the stairs, into the fire,
Up the stairs, into the fire.
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher,
Somewhere up the stairs, into the fire.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

Applejack walked up onto the stage as her sister sang and hugged her tightly, but before Apple Bloom could start to sing again, Applejack looked at the lyric sheet Apple Bloom brought with her and began to sing in her place.

You gave your love to see in fields of red and autumn brown,
You gave your love to me and lay your young body down.
 Up the stairs, into the fire,
 Up the stairs, into the fire.
 I need you near but love and duty called you someplace higher,
 Somewhere up the stairs, into the fire.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

Suddenly, everypony in the crowd began to sing the chorus along with Applejack. The crowd linked hooves as the sang with more and more passion.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

It was dark, too dark to see, you held me in the light you gave,
You lay your hoof on me,
Then walked into the darkness of your smoky grave.
Up the stairs, into the fire,
Up the stairs, into the fire.
I need your kiss, but love and duty called you someplace higher,
Somewhere up the stairs, into the fire.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your strength give us strength,
May your faith give us faith,
May your hope give us hope,
May your love give us love.

May your love give us love...

After the service: the girls, Cognito, Octavia, Cloud, Cheerilee and the princesses carried the coffin to Sweet Apple Acres. They took it to the spot where Bloomberg used to be planted where a hole had already been dug. They took one last look at Phoenix and made a silent prayer before sealing the coffin and lowering the coffin into the ground. The princesses used their magic to fill the grave and place Phoenix's tombstone. Everypony began to leave, but Applejack, Pinkie and Cognito remained behind.

"We're all gonna miss him, Applejack." Pinkie said, trying to comfort Applejack.

"Ah know, sugarcube. But..." Applejack trailed off at the end.

"But... what?" Pinkie asked.

"It's like we killed him." Applejack said, tearing up again.

"Applejack! We didn't kill him! We didn't know what the Elements of Harmony would do." Pinkie argued.

"Ah know, Ah know. But, that's just how it feels." Applejack said. She felt a hoof touch both of her shoulders as Pinkie and Cognito had put them there.

"I have skimmed through some of your memories of him. May I ask a question?" Cognito asked monotonously. After Applejack nodded, Cognito continued.

"Do you think you blaming yourself is what he'd want?" Cognito asked. Applejack looked at him in silence before weakly shaking her head.

"He was the closest thing I had to a friend. But, I don't blame you for what happened to him. I calculated 57 likely outcomes, 3 of which you all would have survived, but no one could have ever predicted the events of D-Day." Cognito said, referring to Discord Day. His tone never changed, almost like a machine. But, if one looked hard enough, they would tell that Cognito was experiencing emotion. He just didn't know how to express it. Applejack finally looked at Cognito.

"Thank you. And, you don't have to be lonely. You can have us as friends if you like." Applejack said, blatantly trying to smile, but just couldn't. After Cognito agreed, Pinkie volunteered to take him on a tour of Ponyville, leaving Applejack alone. She reached up to her hat and felt the brooch with her hoof before turning away from the grave.

"You'll always be the apple of mah eye. Ah... Ah love you, Phoenix... Ah just wish Ah said it while you were still around." Applejack began to walk away at a rather fast pace as tears poured from eyes once again. The wind began to blow as the words on the grave remained undisturbed in the silence.

'Here lies Phoenix Fortesque.

Gambler

Hero

...Friend'
> ...?
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------











































































Phoenix's eyes shot open as he gasped in as much air as he could. He coughed and spluttered for a few moments until he managed to regulate his breathing. He finally looked around to see a wide open, misty space. It felt almost... ethereal. He didn't have to wait long before he saw somepony approaching him through the mist. She was a tall alicorn with a crystal white coat and a bright red mane and tail. Her cutie mark was a large quill in an inkpot.

"Fear not, child. You're safe now." The alicorn said sweetly.

"Who are you?" Phoenix asked. The alicorn giggled.

"Why, I'm known by many names, but you know me as Faust." Faust said.

"..." Phoenix simply stared in disbelief as Faust gently draped a wing over him.

"Come, Phoenix. Welcome... to Elysium." Faust said as she lead Phoenix into the mist.

"But..." Phoenix tried to speak, but his words fell on deaf ears.

"Up-bup-bup. Let's get you settled in. Heaven can be a difficult place to adjust to." Faust replied.