Spectrum Skies, daughter of Rainbow Dash and Soarin, just wants to become a Wonderbolt. That's all. But when things start to get quirky, how far will she go to ensure that she gets her wish?
BEFORE YOU READ: This takes place in Calm Wind's Wonderverse, after Piercing the Heavens. It was started before PtH was finished, so some events may turn out different.
Everypony has life goals.
In Spectrum's case, it would be following her parents' hoofsteps and becoming a Wonderbolt.
Unfortunately, life doesn't seem to agree with her. With loads of stress, unwanted attention, an extremely tight schedule, terrible school projects, not to mention an annoying little brother who literally gets in the way of everything she does, can Spectrum Skies overcome all those obstacles and emerge with triumph? Or will the pressure drag her down before she meets her goal?
I'm Spectrum Skies, the daughter of Rainbow Dash and Soarin. Yes, I am talking about the Rainbow Dash and the Soarin, two of the most famous Wonderbolts in history. Don't be surprised. I'm just another regular pony who happens to famous just for being descended from Wonderbolts.
Now where should I start? Right, Wonderbolts. The best flight acrobatics group in Equestria. To be honest, I think they are the only group that happens to be famous, since I haven't really heard of any other groups. Of course, it's only natural for me to be a big fan of them. I mean, being a child of Dash and Soarin and not being a big fan of the Wonderbolts? That's more than a little ironic, isn't it?
I guess you've already figured out the story now that I've mentioned the Wonderbolts. As you might have guessed, I do plan on following my parents' hoofsteps and becoming a Wonderbolt myself. Some ponies say that I've been overworking myself, but hey, everypony has life goals. I'm just the type that tries EXTRA hard to reach them.
You should've heard the names my annoying little brother calls me. Every single time he sees me with a book, he started laughing and calling me something like 'Nerdy Skies' or 'Spectrum Nerd', or something dreadful like that. What can I say? It's true. I like books. I think I inherited that from mom, since we both happen to be big fans of the Daring Do series. But truth is, I also read informational books on weather and flying techniques, unlike most of my family. I just hope my brother, Prismatic Blitz (although he prefers Prism), never, ever finds them, 'cause if he does, he's going to tattle to mom and dad about it.
Hopefully I won't be exiled from the family for my lack of coolness.
I suppose that's what sets me apart from the rest of my family. Lack of coolness, huh? That does sound ridiculous now that I think about it. But to me, that is a pretty big difference.
Let's start with mom. The element of loyalty, the self-proclaimed fastest pony in Equestria, a world-famous Wonderbolt, performer of the legendary Sonic Rainboom who helped save Equestria countless times. If there's one word to define that, it's the word awesome.
Then, there's dad. Co-captain of the Wonderbolts, one of the members of the lead squad who helped mom achieve her dreams of becoming a Wonderbolt herself. He may not be a world-saver like mom, but he is still a very inspiring figure.
And lastly . . . as much as I hate to admit it . . . there's my younger brother, Prism Blitz. He's kind of like mom when she was younger. You know, the over-confident, braggy type? Yep, that's him. Only, he's about twenty percent less cooler than her (please don't let him hear that).
And two hundred percent less mature, might I add.
I don't know why, but my parents find it adorable when he brags. He's got this loud, scratchy voice, and he literally gets all over the place and starts striking ridiculous poses when he's super energetic. And that's most of the time, for your information. When he's at school, he's always showing off his 'skills' to other foals. When he's at home, he's always bragging about how he is so much better than his sister, "Nerdy Skies". My parents say that foals will be foals.
I, on the other hoof, would gladly trade all my weekly allowance to make him shut up for one day.
Okay, that's enough hate for now.
Now where was I? Right, the difference between me and the rest of my family. We all know of how brave mom and dad were, being able to do all those daring stunts without the fear of getting hurt. Even Prism isn't afraid of crashing into rocks. I'm not any different from them either when it comes to tricks. I've gotten hurt a number of times (though not as much as Prism, I swear that kid just broke the record of most injuries acquired), but I learn from those mistakes so that I don't make them again.
What sets me apart from them is my humility.
Now I bet you're all like Le Gasp, Spectrum you just bragged about your humility. Well, thinking logically, I wouldn't be humble if I bragged. So if I claimed my humbleness first, then I can't possibly be a bragger. That is the reason why I am not bragging, but merely telling the truth about myself.
So ANYWAY, if you were to ask me what my biggest fear was, I would have no trouble answering that, unlike someponies. In fact, I share the same fear as the rest of my family. It's one of the most obvious secrets my family holds, yet I am the only one brave enough to expose it (no bragging intended). Okay, gotta quit stalling. So, as I was saying, the biggest fear that binds the family together, the darkest corner of our heritage, the shadow of the bloodline . . . is . . .
. . . the fear of failure.
[insert dramatic effect here]
Oh no.
I just spilled my family's biggest secret.
At least Blitz was right about one thing: I sometimes do have a big mouth.
I gotta admit, I'm a little like my mom's friend, Twilight. Pretty ironic, huh? I'm the child of two Wonderbolts, so everypony expects me to be cool and all that stuff. But I'm actually more of the introverted, bookworm type. True, I love flying and competing and stuff, but that doesn't mean I can't be intelligent. By that, I mean by studying, learning, reading, and the type of stuff my brother would call egghead. Mom used to call that kind of stuff egghead, too, but now that I've taken an interest in learning, she's decided to encourage me instead.
So that's basically who I am. Hardworking, determined, tough, intelligent, introverted, and semi-egghead. What a mix of traits. I honestly have no idea where I got the last three from.
Now that's the general idea of my life. You've got it all from family to secrets to personality. You might be thinking: how in Equestria is a tough...introvert...going to become a Wonderbolt?
Cheers erupt as I fly into the stadium. There are thousands of ponies out there, all cheering for me. Every eye follows my every movement as I wave to the audience, flashing smiles at the cameras. I had never felt so excited in my life to be out here, dressed in my Wonderbolt attire, my flight goggles on and ready to go.
Why? Cause today is the day. The day of my first performance ever as a Wonderbolt. In less than a minute, I would be achieving my lifelong dream, flying alongside with my fellow teammates while the crowds roared with delight. I know I deserve it, for I have worked so hard for all my life to reach this goal. And I know my reward will be anything but small.
My heart beats faster as my teammates pull up beside me. I looked at each of them and grin. They grin back, ready to give it all they've got. Feeling much more confident, I turn to the pegasus on my left.
"You ready, Flare?" I ask, my voice brimming with determination.
Her creamy orange and blue mane shining in the sunlight, Flaring Mist responds with a smirk that could rival one of my mom's. "I was born ready!"
Okay. Here goes nothing, I thought as I get ready for the signal. I have worked hard for this all my life, and this is my chance to shine. And it had to be perfect. Screw up just the tiniest bit, and you're over.
3 . . .
I go over the whole routine at the speed of lightning in my mind.
2 . . .
Every little detail, every speck of it, has to be perfect, nothing less.
1 . . .
My heart feels like it's going to burst if I wait any longer . . .
GO!!!
KA-BAM!!!
I take off with a blast that echoes throughout the stadium. Waves of energy blast outwards, giving me a burst of speed. A grin spreads over my face as the roaring of the crowd reaches my ears.
A perfectly executed Sonic Blast-off, passed down from father to daughter. Success.
Now that phase one is complete, I concentrate on the task before me. Glancing to my left, I see my best friend, Flare, coming in to join me. We accelerate higher and higher, bursting through rings of clouds. Behind us are our teammates, Whirlwind and my brother, Prism Blitz. They follow my lead, their trails overlapping like colorful ribbons in the wind.
Come on, guys, I think as we near the stunts that require teamwork. We can do this.
Flare and I shoot through a column of clouds, each containing the props we need for our next stunt. I emerge with my hooves crackling with lightning, while Flare has her body enveloped in bright flames. The energy bounces all over my hooves and up my legs, begging to be released.
Whirlwind and Prism start flying in circles, creating a tunnel of wind. It's like a slow tornado, with just the right amount of wind to keep it from going wild. Prism paints the tunnel with his rainbow streak, while Whirlwind, the "whirlwind master", directs the tunnel to spiral down towards the stadium.
I allow myself to smirk for the briefest of seconds as I imagine the shocked looks on the faces of the audience. From where they're sitting, it might look like a catastrophe of storms. But here, we've got it all under control. I do the countdown in my head as Flare does the same in her head.
Three . . .
Two . . .
One . . .
"Woohoo!" I can't resist hollering out loud as Flare and I burst through the tunnel of wind. The torrents of air threatens to drag me down, but I fly strong and beat my wings hard. The lightning crackles all over me (I'm surprised my mane didn't wilt), it's energy at it's peak. I see a blinding flash of bright yellow and orange out of the corner of my eye. Flare is literally a living rocket at this point, I can tell.
Suddenly, we all burst out of the tunnel. All four of us, thrown in different directions like a firework. The lightning zaps off me as the force of the explosion carries it outwards, blinding the view of the audience. Wind, lightning, fire, and even some water from the clouds all combine to create the biggest shockwave Equestria has ever seen.
Once again, I apologize for any blindness, deafness, or heart damage caused by this show.
No refunds yet, cause we've still got a grand finale coming up.
The four of us shoot down towards the stadium, just barely skimming over the awestruck faces of the audience. I'm not sure which is louder, the noise from the explosion, or the cheers that greeted us as we descended to the ground.
I motion for my teammates to take their places quickly. Our grand finale required quite a bit of preparation, but I didn't want to keep the audience waiting. I gather up a herd of preheated clouds with my speed while my teammates take their places around the stadium. Once the clouds are ready to go, I direct them higher and higher until they rise above the stadium.
My teammates join me, coming in from different directions. We all mix in with the clouds, soon leaving contrails of white, orange, and stormy grey behind. I can feel waves of energy radiating outwards. Many thanks to those ponies who put some sort of "secret ingredient" in those clouds.
'Cause today, we are going to paint the sky with our symbol.
I start by flying in a zig-zag pattern. Stormclouds trail behind me, creating the image of a lightning bolt. I pull out of a dive and fly back up, creating an identical lightning bolt connecting at the bottom. Then, I finish by drawing a line that connected the two lightning bolts at the top.
There. A masterpiece of a lightning bolt created by artist Spectrum Skies. But that's not all . . .
Flaring Mist and Whirlwind fly outwards from the sides of the lightning bolt, spraying bits of cloud everywhere. Their clouds spread outwards like feathers extended from the base. Soon, my lightning bolt had an extension:
A masterpiece of a lightning bolt with two wings extending from it. But it wasn't quite finished yet . . .
Prism Blitz flew across the picture, showering sparks all over it. The symbol glowed with light, little sparks of lightning dancing all over it. He then joined us at the sides to admire the masterpiece we had put together.
It was the Wonderbolts' symbol.
Our symbol.
The lightning bolt with wings extending from the sides, showered in sparks of lightning, was our symbol. Memories of my team came rushing back to me as I stared at it, admiring the beauty of our work. It reminded me of all the hard work I've been through to become a Wonderbolt, to fly alongside my friends as the crowds cheered thunderously below. Years of determination, hours of pain, spent into this grand masterpiece, as well as many, many more to come.
Tears welled up in my eyes. I furiously blink them off. Now was not the time to get all sappy. We've still got a show to end and many autographs to sign.
Flare, Whirlwind, Prism, and I burst through the symbol at once, causing sparks to fly everywhere. We did several more loops and turns before descending down to the stadium. The cheering of the crowd could be heard across Equestria.
I had never felt so proud in all my life. Our first show, a success. Ponies cheering for me and my team. It was everything I've dreamed for. I could only conclude that it was a dream come -
"HEY SIS! WAKE UP!"
I leapt out of bed, landing in a pile on the floor. Groaning in pain and frustration, I shoved the blanket out of my face and stood up gingerly. Prism just HAD to wake me up like that. The next time I see him, he'd better be prepared.
What confused me more than why Prism had a voice was the dream. I'd been having that same dream for a week now. Every night, I'd disappear into the stadium and perform tricks with my friends. Every morning, I'd wake up and realize that it was all a dream. It's not that I'm annoyed by the dream, it's just. . . why did it seem so real?
Was the dream trying to tell me something? I know I still have a long way to go before I can even get the courage to fly in a stadium. But somehow, it felt so satisfying and epic at the same time, so unlike myself in the real world. I would've died of stage fright, let alone perform one of those extremely advanced tricks.
"NERDY SKIES! ARE YOU STILL BURIED IN BOOKS?" My brother's ear-shattering voice rang out again, breaking my thoughts to pieces. "I'M TELLING - "
"OKAY, OKAY!" I yelled back, stomping a hoof against the ground. "I'm coming, sheesh!"
Geez, what a tattler. It's not illegal to read, you know.
As I tried to walk out of my room, I caught a glimpse of myself in the large body-length mirror standing in the corner. The next second, I was beyond thankful for the fact that I didn't continue walking outside.
My hair was a mess. I know I don't own the neatest mane in Equestria, but this morning, it looked like it had been zapped by lightning ten times over. I remember a time where I was younger, when I accidently strayed too close to a thundercloud. Not only was it shockingly painful. My mane looked like a multicolored half destroyed birds nest, just as it looked right now.
I groaned and tried to straighten out my mane and tail with a brush. It was exceedingly painful, one of the only things I would allow tears for. I wouldn't be surprised if there were a million knots in there.
Many ponies say that my mane and tail are extremely rare. At first, I thought it was because of the multicolored-ish-ness (or something like that). But later, I realized something that set it apart from everypony else's.
My mane and my tail don't match.
(Dun, DUN, DUUUUN)
Sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? Well it is strange that I am the only pony so far who doesn't have a matching mane and tail. Even my mother's mane has a full rainbow in it, just like her tail. I, on the other hoof, have the red, orange, and yellow in my mane, and the green, blue, and purple in my tail, both coated with strands of my father's cobalt blue. It's kind of annoying that I have to fly a certain way in order to create a FULL rainbow contrail, instead of just green, blue, and purple.
Scratch that. VERY annoying.
After another minute of agony, I finally managed to put all my colors back in the right section. Tossing aside the brush, I stood up to admire my work. Unfortunately, I chose the completely wrong time to do so.
"HA! Caught you posing in front of the mirror again!"
I turned to see a pale blue colt with a full rainbow mane and tail standing in my doorway, wearing a very devious smirk. Great. More trouble. I shook my head and walked over.
"Prism, it wouldn't hurt to take care of your looks once in a while," I said, taking notice of his mane, which had bits of hair sticking out in various places.
"I don't need to take care of my looks!" he retorted, striking a(nother) ridiculous pose. "I look better than all the burning stallionly souls combined!
I rolled my eyes all the way and barely managed to walk past him without tripping. "I don't know what you've been learning from that Wonderbolt - was it Air Bag? Air Sack? - but all I know is that it's ridiculous."
"HEY! IT'S NOT RIDICULOUS!" He lunged at me, but I easily sidestepped the attack, causing him to crash facedown into the sturdy, cloud-coated floor. "Ha! I meant to do that!" he bragged, jumping back up on his hooves like nothing happened. "A true stallion needs to learn to take a few hits once in a while!"
"A true stallion has ten times your brains and twenty times your guts," I muttered as I unfurled my wings and slowly glided downstairs, hoping to avoid another commotion. I guess I got lucky, since I managed to make it downstairs without getting crashed into.
Or at least I thought so.
"HYAAAAH!"
I barely had any time to think before a large object crashed into me, knocking me all the way to the kitchen. I let out a yelp as the large object, also known as Prism Blitz, landed on top of me, nearly destroying all my oxygen supply. We skidded to a halt at a leg of the kitchen table in a pile of feathers, legs, and tufts of rainbow hair. Sigh. So much for straightening my mane and tail.
"Whoa, what happened here?"
Juuuust my luck.
I lifted my head to see mom staring down at us with a glare that could turn a cockatrice to stone. Dad came just a second after and stopped at the sight of our very deformed pile. Thankfully, an amused smile stretched across his face.
"Did you guys get in a fight again?" he asked while smiling and shaking his head.
I turned my head and glared daggers at Prism, before knocking him off me. He hit the ground with an 'oof' before leaping back up and pointing at me. "She started it!"
"Wha - No, I didn't!" I retorted back truthfully, unlike somepony. "I seem to recall you crashing into me at the bottom of the stairs!"
"You were the one posing in front of the mirror! You were lucky I walked in before you started putting make-up on!"
"First of all, what does that even have to do with you crashing into me? Second of all, I. Was. Not. Posing! And I don't use make-up, either."
"Then why did I find a pack of lipstick in your drawer?"
"That's a pack of glue sticks. I needed it for a project. And what in tarnation were you doing in my drawer?"
"THAT'S ENOUGH!"
We both flinched as mom's loud, scratchy voice cut through our argument. Prism opened his mouth to retort, but the look on mom's face told him otherwise. She sighed and walked over to us.
"Guys, this isn't the first time you've landed in a pile at the kitchen. I know I'm probably asking the impossible of you, but you both really need to start getting along. Got that?"
Prism crossed his arms and huffed. "Fine."
How stallionly of him.
I made a better impression by replying with a complete sentence. "I will try to get along with him with hopes that he will also try to get along with me," I replied very sincerely.
My dad chuckled at my impression. "Relax, Specky. Foals will be foals. I think your brother learned that the hard way, didn't he?"
Prism shot up as soon as he heard the word 'foals'. "I'm no foal! I'm the stallionest stallion alive! I'm handsome, gutsy, cool - "
"You know what? I'm going to breakfast," I announced, pushing past him and taking a seat at the table. "I don't know about you, Blitz, but I don't want to be late for school."
Suddenly, my parents stopped as though they were reminded of something. Furrowing his eyebrows, my dad turned to my mom while keeping an eye on me all the while. "Should we tell her, Dashie?"
My mom gave me a quick glance before replying. "I guess. I'm sure she wouldn't want to miss out on a chance like that."
Huh? What were they trying to tell me? There was obviously something going on that I should be knowing about. My ears perked up in curiosity. I slowly took a bite of pancake while awkward silence resumed. I knew it had to be something big, or why else would they be so hesitant?
Then, my mother spoke.
"Spectrum Skies, you have been accepted into the Cloudsdale Academy of Advanced Flight and Academics."
The Advanced Cloudsdale Academy. . . the most advanced flight school in Equestria next to the Wonderbolt Academy. . . where only the best of the best could go. . . where even some Wonderbolts have been known to graduate from. . .
"WHAT?!?"
Chapter 2: The Obvious Connection Between Reading Glasses and Sonic Rainbooms
The Obvious Connection Between Reading Glasses and Sonic Rainbooms
"Wait, you mean THE Cloudsdale Academy? The most advanced flight school in Equestria?"
"Yep, that's the one," my dad answered casually, obviously expecting my reaction.
I slumped my hooves down on the table, unwilling to believe what I was hearing. The Cloudsdale Academy of Advanced Flight and Academics was only for the best of the best. Most pegasi never even heard of it unless they got accepted. How did I, a regular, everyday pegasus, get accepted into a school for the best?
"B-But what did I do to deserve this? I mean, I'm just an average Pegasus with average flying sk - " I didn't get a chance to finish voicing my thoughts.
"Spectrum, you are anything BUT average," my mother cut in.
Wait, if I'm anything BUT average - "Does that mean I'm BELOW average?" I finished my thoughts for myself.
My mother facehoofed, completely losing her demeanor. "No, Spectrum. You are ABOVE average. There's a reason why you made it into the Cloudsdale Academy. They only take the best of the best. It's not something you take for granted. You have to actually earn your spot there."
I looked down at my hooves, still lost in thought. "But the thing is, what exactly did I do to earn my spot there?"
At this point, my dad decided to interfere.
"Specky, do you still remember the day you got your cutie mark?"
My eyes widen at the mention of my cutie mark. It's been a long time since that subject has been brought up. Of course, that's mostly because I try my best to avoid it. Why would I try to avoid the subject of my cutie mark, when I should be proud of it?
Because I don't feel like I deserve it. Weird, right?
My eyes travel down to my cutie mark. It is a picture of a wide rainbow streak with white energy crackling around it. Something any other pegasus would do anything for. But not me. I had always expected my cutie mark to come in the form of books or some of that nerdy, egghead stuff, as they call it. I hadn't expected a vibrant rainbow-themed cutie mark that had something to do with flight.
Instinctively, my mind wandered back to the day I got my cutie mark. . .
It was just another ordinary day. Or at least that's what it looked like. The sun was shining, the clouds were white and puffy, the birds were chirping - yeah, just like that. Maybe I study too much poetry.
ANYWAY, I shoved the last of my books in my saddlebags and got up. I had just done studying the banishment and return of Nightmare Moon and how the Elements of Harmony defeated her and brought back Princess Luna. It was strange and exciting at the same time to see my mom's name mentioned in the book as one of the Elements. I would have considered myself very lucky to be the daughter of such a famous hero. . . if it weren't for the stares I got everywhere I go.
I was about to take off my reading glasses - yes, I am a semi-nerd so it's okay for me to wear reading glasses - when I noticed the clock. It read 7:58. Something wasn't right there. Since when did time pass by so quickly? School was supposed to start at 8:00, so. . .
"NO! I'M GONNA BE LATE!" I shrieked as I realized how dire my situation was. I had less than two minutes to get to school. And I had never gotten a tardy in all my life, so let's not break that tradition. This means I had to fly fast.
I shot downstairs, calling a quick goodbye to mom and dad, who just stared at me in confusion. Then, I whisked right past Prism, who was just heading out the door. I didn't even bother to stop as I heard him yelling something in the distance.
I dodged cloud after cloud, knowing that each second was precious. Every strong flap of my wings brought me closer and closer to my destination. Time was ticking by constantly, my grades were hanging on the edge.
That was when I noticed that something was missing.
I hadn't taken my reading glasses off before heading out the door. But they were currently not on my face either. With me flying at this speed it could only mean one thing. . .
I made a sudden swerve in my flight and looked back. Sure enough, there were a pair of gleaming glasses in the distance, gradually falling to the ground. My heart started racing like crazy again. My reading glasses were one of my most prized possessions. If I were to leave them behind, I would never forgive myself.
But did I have time to go back and get them? It was only a matter of seconds before the bell rang. Even if I continued flying, there might still be a chance that I would be late for school. My mind was turning like a turbulence.
School. . .
Glasses. . .
School. . .
Glasses. . .
"You know what?" I ripped off my saddlebags and threw them onto a nearby cloud. "Screw school. If I'm going to be late anyway, might as well get something out of it."
With that said, I took off after my falling glasses like a bullet.
I fought the wind, flapping my wings as hard as I could. I was heading towards the ground, trying to keep at an angle that intercepted my glasses. Clouds burst as I whizzed though, for I was not going to let anything get in my way. Not this time.
An air cone was starting to form at my hooves. Pressure was building up against me like a volcano ready to burst. As mush as it strained my muscles, I pushed on, never backing down.
My reading glasses were nearing the ground. The hard, concrete ground loomed before them, ready to shatter them to pieces. No, I could not let it happen. Not to my reading glasses. . .
The air cone enveloped my entire body. I could no longer hear anything. All I could see was my hooves outstretched in front of me, and my reading glasses just in my line of sight. My teeth were gritting together, tears flying from my eyes. But no, I couldn't give up, not for my precious reading glasses.
Come on, I urged myself forward. Must. . . get. . . glasses. . .
Energy crackled around the cone.
No. . . not my reading glasses. . .
The pressure was getting unbearable, threatening to rip my feathers off.
Never fear, my reading glasses, I will. . . save. . . you. . .
Just as I thought I was going to snap. . .
KA-BOOM!!!
I had broken the sound barrier.
I had done the legendary sonic rainboom.
Waves of vibrant, colorful energy erupted around me as I pulled up with my reading glasses safe in my hooves. I shot straight up into the air, faster than ever thanks to the release of pressure. I allowed myself a glance behind me - to my satisfaction, there was a solid, full rainbow trail extending behind me.
I couldn't believe it. I had done what only my mother had been able to achieve. The legendary Sonic Rainboom.
All thanks to my reading glasses.
I pulled up on a cloud, panting. Immediately, I was surrounded by hundreds of reporters, all willing to get my attention. Some of my friends were there, too. I recognized Flare and Whirlwind, both staring at me with awestruck expressions on their faces. Then, Flare pointed at my flank and mouthed the word 'cutie mark'. I looked over and sure enough, there was a rainbow air cone with energy crackling around it.
A Sonic Rainboom, AND a cutie mark. Best. Day. EVER.
Well, besides the fact that I got my first tardy today.
I tried to stand up, but my energy failed me. The last thing I saw before the darkness engulfed me was my reading glasses. Bent, cracked, and broken, but still safe in my hooves.
"Thank you. . . reading glasses. . . "
"Hello? Equestria to Specky!"
"Ah - Yeah?" I snapped out of my thoughts and into the present world.
My dad's face loomed before my slightly blurred vision. "Yeah. . . you kinda zoned out there."
"Yeah, I know," I replied forlornly, swallowing a bite of breakfast, the image of my poor broken reading glasses still fresh in my mind. "I was just mourning my reading glasses."
"Nah, save that for later," my mom attempted to get us back on track. "I was talking about the Sonic Rainboom. I mean, how many other ponies would be willing to do a Sonic Rainboom just to save a pair of reading glasses?"
Well, that doesn't make me any less upset that my efforts still resulted in broken glasses. But I guess she was right. "Not that I know of," I muttered.
"See?" my father agreed. "It's your determination that counts. You're the type that would go for extreme measures no matter how small the issue. That's what the Academy was looking for."
"Huh," I went over what my parents had just told me. Maybe I did earn my place at the academy. I have always been quite the perfectionist, only I didn't realize I had taken such measures for every little detail to be perfect.
"Although," my mom countered. "We would have preferred that you rescued a pair of shades, instead of reading glasses."
"What?!" My eye twitched. "You saying I'm not cool enough?"
My parents laughed. "No, Spectrum, we were just joking," my mom chuckled. "You are cool in your own way. But you really need to relax and take a joke sometimes."
I nervously rubbed the back of my head and chuckled. "Yeah, I guess you're right." Then, I sighed. The usual sigh. "I'm just a little nervous about going to this new school and all. You know how much I hate being the new kid."
"A little nervous?" my dad raised an eyebrow unbelievingly.
I groaned. "Fine. A lot nervous."
Mom chuckled. "Don't worry. I heard from Fleetfoot that Whirlwind is also coming, and Fire Streak told me that Flaring Mist also got accepted. You won't be the only new kid there."
I almost leapt out of my seat in joy and surprise. Scratch that. I DID leap out of my seat in joy and surprise, smack my head on the ceiling, and splat into a pony pancake on the floor (not literally or that would be just creepy).
"Flare and Whirlwind are coming?" I gasped, so unlike myself. "This is better than I expected!" Well, that's one good thing. At least I don't need to spend the first days stumbling into the wrong classrooms. Then, another question popped into my mind.
"Wait, when did you find out about this?" I inquired, curious to know why they were telling me this now.
My parents glanced at each other uncomfortably. "Er, last night, after you where asleep," my dad replied a little hesitantly, unsure of how I'd take this. Well, too bad for him.
"What?! You just recently received the news? What type of academy sends an important notice at the last minute?" I scowled, not approving of the time they chose to send this.
"I know, right?" my mom agreed. "I'm totally with you on that. But turns out, there was a little competition for the spot, and they took a loooong time before deciding on you."
My ears drooped down. "So I just barely made the cut." Well, it was at least nice to know that I didn't get things just 'cause I had awesome parents. But while I was grateful for that, I couldn't help feeling disappointed in myself. My parents would have taken the top spot if they were in my place.
"Oh, come ON, Spectrum," my mother cried out loud in exasperation. "You were one of the youngest to get in that school. Most of the other kids probably had years more experience than you, but you have a chance of beating them. Isn't that something to be proud of?"
"Hey, I like being humble," I answered truthfully. Both my parents facehoofed. Apparently humbleness does NOT run in the family bloodline.
"Sometimes, pride can be used to your advantage," my father answered. "Just as long as you don't get too proud."
"Yeah, unlike somepony," I added, shooting a glare at Prism. Then, I recoiled with shock.
Prism wasn't there.
Just then, I realized something I should have realized a long time ago. Prism hadn't said a word this whole time. Since it's impossible for him to keep his mouth shut for more than ten seconds, he must have left a long time ago. If he had left a long time ago, then school must have already started. If school must have already started. . .
"What time does my new school start at?!?" I demanded, jumping up into a stance.
My parents flinched at my sudden outburst. "It starts a little later at 8:30," my dad answered calmly. "Don't worry, you still have ti - Whoa!"
I followed my dad's gaze to the clock. It read 8:28. I am so screwed.
"NO! I'M GONNA BE LATE!" I crammed one last bite into my mouth, not even bothering to chew with my mouth closed, and snatched up my newest pair of reading glasses from the table next to my saddlebag, which I had packed the night before. Then, I tried desperately to slip them in, but they were sealed tight. Having no other choice, I slammed them onto my face and flew out the door with my saddlebag.
I have barely gone ten meters when I suddenly rushed back into the house. "Where is my new school located!?" I half asked, half shrieked.
"You go to your old school first and they'll take you from there," my mother answered somewhat calmly while my dad stared at the scene with a bewildered expression on his face.
I rushed back outside and shot towards my school at breakneck speed. The wind threatened to ring me down, but I held strong. I burst through cloud after cloud, flapping my wings like it was the end of the world. Well, at least I did the weather team a favor this time, I thought as I wiped out a ring of clouds.
That was when I noticed that something was missing.
I had slammed on my reading glasses before heading out the door. But they were currently not on my face either. With me flying at this speed, it could only mean one thing. . .
I made a sudden swerve in my flight and looked back. Sure enough, there were a pair of gleaming glasses in the distance, gradually falling to the ground. My second pair of reading glasses. About to face the same doom as my first pair. I could not let this happen again.
But today was the first day of my new school. I didn't want to make a terrible first impression by being late. I weighed my options, my mind lost in a turbulence.
New school. . .
Glasses. . .
New school. . .
Glasses. . .
I guess I don't need to tell you what happened next.
"Dashie, I still can't believe you kept her back on purpose," Soarin shook his head, although an amused smile found its way to his face.
"What? I just wanted her to make a good first impression," Rainbow Dash answered innocently.
"By good first impression, you mean getting her late to class."
"Nah, I just wanted to see what tricks she'll pull off this time."
Soarin chuckled lightly, knowing very well that he could do nothing to argue against the logic of his beloved. Although she still tended to show it in a reckless way, he knew that she just wanted the best for their daughter. Of course, the same could be said for their son.
He still hadn't gotten over the fact that Spectrum Skies and Prismatic Blitz had two of the most different personalities he had ever seen in anypony, other than the Streak brothers. Spectrum was a serious, intelligent hard worker who was also quite an introvert and a perfectionist. Prism, on the other hoof, was a loud, wild socialist who tended to be lazy in his work. How the two of them happened to be related, he could never figure out.
"We've certainly come a long way, haven't we?" he said, putting an arm around his wife. She relaxed at his touch and smiled.
"I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you, you big dope," she poked him playfully. Then, she stared into each his eyes for a moment, savoring the memories hidden deep in those shining emerald orbs.
"I love you, Soar," she said, leaning in.
"I love you too, Dashie," he replied with an equal amount of love, leaning in.
Just then. . .
BOOM!
A shockwave exploded through the air, sending the couple rearing backwards. Energy buzzed in the air for a few seconds. A dazzling spectrum could be seen from through the windows, radiating outwards like colorful flames.
The two of them ran to the window, enjoying the beautiful view. From afar, a rainbow streak could be seen shooting upwards from the ground. Rainbow Dash then turned to Soarin, her eyes glowing with pride.
I just did another Sonic Rainboom to save my reading glasses.
Again.
I tumbled into a heap on the cloudy school grounds, breathing hard. I still couldn't believe what had just happened. It was an exact replay of when I had earned my cutie mark - I saw my glasses falling so I flew to save them and did a Sonic Rainboom in the process. Amazing? Yes. Exciting? Yes. Worth it? To me, yeah. Exhausting?
Unfortunately, yes. Very exhausting. Thankfully, this wasn't my first time, so I didn't black out first thing. But that still didn't change the fact that I was lying on the cloud, my reading glasses slipping out of my hooves, my tattered saddlebag several feet away from me, and my wings aching like CRAZY. I tried to stand up on my hooves, but I barely had any energy left.
I breathed out into a long sigh. I didn't even need to open my eyes. The soft platter of hooves on clouds coming near me was significant enough. I knew it wouldn't be long before I attracted a crowd. In this case, some privacy would be good. But when you show up half-dead on the school clouds after performing a Sonic Rainboom (for a reason yet unknown to public), privacy is the LAST thing you're going to get.
"Is there anything you would care to explain, Ms. Skies?"
Oh no. My eyes fluttered open. I knew that voice. It was the voice of Principal Weatherwing, the principal of the school. Apparently, she is VERY strict on tardies and discipline. And I know that whenever she uses that tone, it means my luck has run out.
I glanced around, trying to hide the embarrassment on my face. It looked like half the school had gathered outside to see me get chastised. Everyone knows that I'm supposed to be a model student, and here I am, late to classs, lying on the cloud in heap of a mess. I was starting to doubt if saving my glasses really was a good idea.
"Well?"
I looked up and slowly got to my hooves. My body was aching all over, and I wasn't in a hurry to use up the energy that had just started to return. Trying to ignore the chatter that spread through the crowd, I answered in the politest way I could.
"Principal Weatherwing, I am truly sorry if I disrupted class in any way. I wasn't keeping track of the time, and when I discovered that I was going to be late for class, I rushed and dropped my, uh, glasses along the way," I explained, looking down at the battered glasses at my hooves. "Then, I flew after them and. . . did a Sonic Rainboom along the way. . ."
Weatherwing failed to catch my last words. "What was that last part?"
I squared my shoulders and took a deep breath, bracing myself for what was coming next. "I did a Sonic Rainboom to save my reading glasses."
The principal gazed at me suspiciously, like as though she was trying to look through to my soul. And when she gives me that look, I have to do all I can to try not to wither. After a few scrutinizing moments, her face suddenly lit up with a smile.
"A Sonic Rainboom!" she exclaimed with pride. "A legendary Sonic Rainboom! You are indeed a daughter of Wonderbolts, Ms. Skies! And how glorious of you to perform your signature move for us! You must really be the performing type, am I right?"
I fought back a particularly loud groan that made it's way from my throat. Great. She just had to bring that up. "Actually, I did it to save my reading gla - "
"Let's give a round of applause for Spectrum Skies, for her fabulous performance of a Sonic Rainboom!" Principal Weatherwing cheered, beaming with pride.
Sigh. Here we go again.
I plastered a fake smile on my face as everypony started showering me with compliments, some giving me encouraging pats on the back. Having no other choice, I accepted all the attention with gratitude and thanks. I know Prism would've loved to be in my place at that time, unlike me, the grump who hated getting too much attention. I was ever so thankful when Principal Weatherwing finally cleared the crowd and herded the students back to the school.
I was slightly surprised, and grateful at the same time, that she didn't chew me out for being late to school. But of course, it's not every day that you get to see a Sonic Rainboom performed by a student from your very own school. Besides, from what I've learned, Sonic Rainbooms have a tendency to increase your happiness by twenty-five to fourty percent, depending on what type of pony you were.
"Hey! Hey, Spectrum!"
A VERY familiar voice greeted my ears. I whipped around to see two ponies gliding towards me. The one who had called was a turquoise pegasus colt with brown-highlighted teal mane and tail. The other one was a pegasus filly with a cream-colored coat and flaming orange mane and tail with electric blue streaks running through them.
My heart instantly lit up at the sight of them. "Sup Whirlwind! Hey Flare!" I called back, waving at them.
Whirlwind flew around me once before getting all up in my face. "Dude, did you actually do a Sonic Rainboom JUST to save your glasses?!?"
"Er. . . yeah, you could put it that way," I could almost give myself a pat on the back for my umpteenth display of pure honesty that day.
Flare landed before me and addressed me a little more formally. "I must say, I am very impressed with your performance," she complimented me, before an amused smirk made its way to her mouth. "But seriously, by how you treat your glasses, I wouldn't be surprised if you suddenly proposed to them."
"In. Your. Dreams," I replied with a deadpan expression as I continued to try to put what was left of my poor glasses into my saddlebag without breaking them completely.
"Hey, you guys mind hurrying up?" Whirlwind called back to us from several yards ahead. "We're going to be late for the ceremony."
"Ceremony? Why am I always the one who never gets to know anything?" I half-pouted as I caught up to Whirlwind.
"Maybe it's because you spend too much of your time buried in books and study," Flare answered casually, gliding alongside me. "There's going to be a ceremony dedicated to us and how we exceeded the expectations for our grade level, and are therefore, permitted to rise to the Cloudsdale Academy of Advanced Flight and Academics. Then, the principal of our new school will come and take us to see our new school, where we will spend the first day touring and learning about schedules and how the academy works."
Leave it to Flare to make a grand one-hour speech about the origins of vocabulary.
"So are we the only ones from this school who are getting promoted?" I asked.
Whirlwind scratched the back of his head, thinking. "Looks like it. I mean, we are the best fliers at this school, AND related to Wonderbolts."
"I don't think the 'related to Wonderbolts' part matters," I answered with a hint of annoyance. "We got in because the staff at the academy recognizes us for our hard work and skill, not because of our parents."
I couldn't blame him for that. Whirlwind, Flare, and I had known each other since we were young foals. This was partially thanks to our parents who had endured many epic adventures together, and didn't hesitate to introduce us to each other once we were old enough. But this was also partially thanks to Prism, whom I had to drag away while apologizing to Whirlwind and Flare, then managing to strike up a conversation and become friends with them.
Whirlwind has a very strange personality. In fact, he actually had two personalities that never seemed to clash. While he was alone with his friends, which would be Flare and me, he was talkative, mischievous, and a bit silly, just like mother. But when we was in public with ponies he didn't know, he turns shy and quiet, like his father. I sometimes wonder if he even is the same pony all the time.
Flaring Mist, or Flare as I prefer to call her, is a reincarnation of her parents. No, her parents are not dead, I am merely saying that her personality is nearly identical to that of her parents. She is kind, polite, and overall IMPOSSIBLE to hate. . . although she does have a rather mischievous side to her that arises occasionally when the three of us are together. She does have a tendency to answer formally - I'm guessing she got that from her father - but she is better at carrying out a conversation than me, which I have to bow down to her for.
I sometimes wonder how in Equestria she grew up with a mother who can't hear anything she says, AND has the ability to use complete sentences and big words in her speech. She told me that she learned sign language at a very young age, enabling her to communicate with her mother. Her father, however, helped her improve verbal speech, which explains why she is our group's walking dictionary. Kind of strange to me, but she really is a miracle sometimes.
I thought back to some good times I've had with my friends. At first, we were skeptical of each other, but as time went by, we soon became like the inseparable trio. I was beyond grateful for them, since I didn't have any other friends at school. They were the ones who loosened me up when I was stressed out and kept me from becoming the pathetic, eggheaded loner I would have become if it weren't for them. Besides that, I had to admit that we had great teamwork skills and got along with each other pretty well -
"If you're zoning out again, Spectrum, can I please smack you on the head?"
- most of the time.
"No, Whirlwind, you may NOT smack me on the head," I glowered at him while Flare giggled at us.
"Aww. . . ," Whirlwind tried to put on sad puppy eyes and failed.
"I hate to break up your rather romantic affair, but we've arrived at our destination," Flare announced rather loudly, earning a few snickers from students passing by, as well as a glare from me. I wonder how many more evil smirks she could be hiding underneath that sweet, innocent smile.
Though she was right about one thing. We HAD arrived at the auditorium, where most announcements were held. Hundreds of students had arrived before us and were already gathered there. We tried to weave our way through the crowd without getting too many injuries. Fortunately, I only got tripped once and caught myself before I landed on my face. It would really ruin my impression as a new graduate if I landed on my face, right?
A loud tap coming from the stage caught our attention. We craned our necks, trying to see above the crowd. It wasn't long before the clear voice of Principal Weatherwing rang through the auditorium.
"Welcome, students and staff. We are gathered here today to honor three students who have shown excellence in academics and skill. I suppose you have all heard of the Cloudsdale Academy of Advanced Flight and Academics, and the three students the staff has been looking for over the past few months. Well, the principal of the Academy has finally made a final decision. It is my pleasure to announce the three honor students. . . ,"
Here it comes.
". . . Whirlwind, Flaring Mist, and Spectrum Skies! In an hour, they will be leaving Cloudsdale High to proceed to the Cloudsdale Academy of Advanced Flight and Academics, the most advanced flight school in Cloudsdale, where they will pick up where they left off at our school, and continue their journey to success. Now, may the three chosen students make their way to the stage to receive their recognition?"
"Wait," Whirlwind whispered to us. "How are we supposed to make our way through this crowd?" He motioned to the line of ponies in front of us for emphasis.
I fought the urge to roll my eyes a full three hundred sixty degrees. "We can fly, you know."
Whirlwind grinned sheepishly. "Oh. Right."
"Believe it or not, I feel like putting on a nice airshow for them," Flare spoke up surprisingly. "What do you say we do arrow formation?"
I leapt into the air, putting more distance between myself and the students below, and unfurled my wings. Flare and Whirlwind followed right behind me in arrow formation, Whirlwind on the left and Flare on the right. Don't ask me how I learned that. I've been allowed to watch my parents and the other 'Bolts practice when I'm on vacation, and that's the same with Flare and Whirlwind. Most ponies aren't supposed to learn the formations until they've actually made it through the tryouts, but that's one of the perks of having Wonderbolts as your parents.
I don't think any of our parents know this yet, but we've been secretly practicing traditional Wonderbolt formations and stunts when we've had the chance. And I'm not willing to let them know anytime soon, because if three-fourths of my family knows, then the last fourth, also known as Prismatic Blitz, will also find a way to know, and that will just ruin everything.
Anyway, as we landed on the stage next to the principal, a few cheers rang out. I glanced at Flare who winked back. You can't blame her for always knowing how to make a good impression. Our attention was then given to Principal Weatherwing, who had turned to address us.
"Congratulations, you three. You have worked hard to prove yourselves worthy of attending the Academy, and we wish you best of luck for your time in your new school. Now we shall proceed to the individual recognitions."
Then, the principal turned to Whirlwind, holding a certificate in one wing and a medal in another. "Whirlwind, both Cloudsdale High and the Academy recognizes you for your speed and strength, as well as your ability to cooperate with your team. We hereby permit you to advance to the Academy to continue your studies."
With a smile, she presented the certificate and the medal to the excited looking colt, who took them without hesitation. I could almost swear I saw him mouth 'shiiiiiny' as he observed the medal with great interest.
Next, she turned to Flare, holding another certificate and a medal. Flare's eyes lit up in anticipation, but she managed to keep a calm and professional posture. "Flaring Mist, both Cloudsdale High and the Academy likewise recognize you for your aerobatic skills, as well as your charisma and your ability to communicate thoroughly. We hereby permit you to advance to the Academy to continue your studies."
Flare stepped forward to receive her award, somehow also creating a speech in the process. "Thank you, Principal Weatherwing. I am honored to have been a student at Cloudsdale High, and I am anticipating that my time at the Academy will be just as prodigious. I would like to thank you for the encouragement that led me to this prestige, for I without it, I would not be standing here on this stage receiving such recognition. Once again, I am much obliged."
Out of the corner of my eye I saw Whirlwind mouth 'show-off' to Flare, who waited until the principal had turned away. . . then stuck her tongue out at him. Yep, that's the secret side of Flaring Mist. I was so busy trying not to crack up right on the spot that I almost missed my own recognition.
"And lastly, Spectrum Skies, both Cloudsdale High and the Academy recognize you for your many flight and aerobatic skills, as well as your intelligence, hard work, and determination, not to mention the stupendous Sonic Rainboom you pulled off earlier. Of course, this doesn't mean you get a free tardy off," she added with a hint of amusement as ripple of light laughter spread throughout the auditorium.
Oh well. There goes my grade.
"Nonetheless, we hereby permit you to advance to the Academy to continue your studies," she concluded with a kind smile. I stepped forward to receive my award with much gratitude.
"Thank you, Principal Weatherwing," I added just to be polite, NOT to begin a long speech. Behind me, Flare flashed me an indignant expression, which I returned with a smirk. Yeah, take that, Flare.
"Let us hear another round of applause for these three talented young ponies!" Principal Weatherwing called to the crowd, which clapped and stomped their hooves in return. I couldn't fight back a small smile that crept its way to my face as I heard the ponies calling out encouragement and compliments. Maybe fame isn't so bad after a -
Wait. I cannot think that that. No, I must stay humble, and I will stay humble no matter how much I want to jump into the crowd and toss out signed autographs. I was the only pony in my family with a speck of humbleness in my blood, and that is too precious to lose. And I don't brag about my humbleness either, I just happen to be an extremely humble pony who leads a humble life in a not-so-humble world.
But again, it didn't hurt to leave the smile on my face as Flare, Whirlwind, and I walked off the stage in a rather orderly fashion. We stood at the side of the stage while the principal continued her speech for another minute, before finally bringing it to a conclusion.
"So as you go back to your own classes, keep in mind that the Academy is always looking for the best fliers that push through every obstacle that comes at them. Maybe one day, some of you will also be able to join these three, so never give up!"
With that, the students all parted to their homeroom classes. Well, all except for the three of us. Several students came by to congratulate us before being herded away by their teachers. One even tried to sweet-talk Flare into persuading the principal into letting him join, but Flare very politely turned him down. So, we waited there for our fates, unsure of what pleasant horrors we would have to face next.
Okay, maybe not 'pleasant horrors', but you can never be too sure of what's gonna hit you next.
And I mean LITERALLY hit you next. As in 'I barely had enough time to react before a turquoise hoof came right across my right foreleg, leaving a stinging mark'. I turned and scowled at Whirlwind, who surprisingly wasn't smirking this time. I looked over to where he was facing and my questions were answered.
Coming towards us were two ponies, both clad in dark blue uniform. One was a middle-aged mare with a grey coat and short dark blue mane, who wore a stern expression. The other one was a younger stallion with a light sapphire coat and dark blue mane with light orange highlights. Unlike the mare, he wore a friendly, welcoming smile as he waved at us.
I gulped. Just loudly enough for Flare to shoot me concerned glance. I didn't even need to ask to know that this was the principal and the vice-principal of the Academy. Which meant that I had to make a perfect first impression, nothing less. Unfortunately, nothing could help sooth my nerves as the mare walked up to us, still wearing the stern glare.
I sighed inwardly, knowing that first impressions were out of question.
"So I take it that you three are the foals who got chosen to attend the Academy? The best flight school in Equestria?" she inquired - more like challenged - in a gruff voice. I forced myself to straighten up and look forward like a soldier, despite the fact that she was observing us quite closely with that glare of hers.
"Well I'll tell you what. The Academy is no place for foals, so if you want to survive your time there, you'd better toughen up," she snapped. I stole a glance at both Flare and Whirlwind in less than a millisecond. Flare was obviously trying her best to keep her posture. Whirlwind looked like he was on the verge of breaking down. Poor guy. Being shy in public obviously isn't helping him at all.
"Now that I've given you a nice, warm welcome, we're going to start with introductions," she announced, looking at each of us in turn. "I'm Principal Stormcloud, and this is my assistant, Vice-Principal Splashing Flames, who'll be taking you on a tour around your new school. You are expected to be on your best behavior. The Academy does not accept slackers."
Then, to my relief, she turned and headed out the door, beckoning for us to follow. "We will now head to the Academy, where everything will be explained."
Flare, Whirlwind, and I glanced at each other before following. Forget about making a good first impression - Principal Stormcloud already seemed to have that covered for us. It had barely been three minutes and I could already tell that the Academy was no place for the undisciplined and uneducated. This was what I had been trained for.
Whirlwind, on the other hoof, wasn't faring as well. Sure, he had the skills and the strength, but he was either too shy or too rambunctious. Neither worked well when you were in the Academy, needless to say GOING to the academy. I could sense the quiver in his hoofsteps as he walked next to me.
Flare, however, was well disciplined, polite, and hard working. She had just the right qualities for a student of the Academy. Well, almost all the right qualities. She could follow orders and resist pain, but she just wasn't. . . intimidating enough. I wasn't sure if she could survive in military drills if she had such a soft voice and personality.
Then, there was me. Yep, the same old me who spends half her precious time getting her muzzle buried in books, the other half training till she was half-dead, and an extra quarter plotting revenge on Prism Blitz (unsuccessful so far). If I could divide my time so evenly between training and studying, I don't suppose homework would be much of a -
"Hey, come on. You don't want to fall behind. The principal is very strict on discipline," a forceful but friendly voice reached my ears. I looked up to see Vice-Principal Splashing Flames waiting for me while hovering above the cloud. By the looks of it, I had zoned out AGAIN, and had almost gotten left behind. I tried to hide my embarrassment as I hurried over to the vice-principal.
"Gee, what's with you zoning out today?" he asked in a slightly playful tone as we took off after the others. I caught a twinge of amusement in his voice and tried to fight back a groan. Way to go, Spectrum. Then, I remembered my plan about first impressions, and instantly tensed up, keeping my face professional and expressionless.
The vice-principal let out a light, musical laugh. "It's alright. You can talk to me. I know Stormcloud can be a bit intimidating at first. It's just her way to test new students to see how disciplined they are."
I pondered for a moment before my mouth beat my mind to it. "You sure this isn't another test of yours?" The words slipped out before I could stop them. I immediately slapped a hoof over my mouth, realizing that I had just spoken out of turn.
He chuckled at my flustered expression before replying. "You know you're going to be spending another hour with me, right? Might as well get to know each other as friends do."
"Oh, okay," I briskly replied. Thank Celestia he was the friendly type, or I would have gotten a zero on my first impressions task.
"So, you must be Spectrum Skies, the one who performed the legendary Sonic Rainboom this morning," he stated, holding out a hoof. "Nice to meet you."
I blinked, them hesitantly took the hoofshake. "Er, nice to meet you, too, Vice-Principal. . . ?" As if this wasn't embarrassing enough. If you didn't believe that I was an awkward socialist, then now you have the proof.
"Splashing Flames, but you can just call me Splash."
"Um, alright then. Nice to meet you, Splash."
He smiled kindly, soothing my nerves by the slightest percent. "So what motivated you to do that spectacular Sonic Rainboom today? That's if you don't mind me asking," he added, noticing that I had tensed up a little.
"N-No, I mean, it's fine," I stuttered, hoping that I didn't upset him. I bit back a groan, cursing my tongue and my conversation skills. "I was just trying to save something that fell while I was coming to school."
Splash raised an eyebrow curiously. "That sounds interesting. What, if I may ask, were you trying to save?"
Oh, here it comes. It was now a choice of honesty or pride. Which trait was more important to a good student? Honesty. . . or pride?
"Well, it's not very important," I said, my voice sounding many volumes smaller than I hoped.
"Spectrum, if you did a Sonic Rainboom just to save that object, then it must be very important to you," he explained calmly. For some reason, his voice reminded me of my dad's when he was teaching me a lesson. Peaceful, motivating, and reasonable. "There's nothing to me ashamed of."
I sighed. This guy was seriously impossible to fight. It was no wonder he was the vice-principal of the best flight school in Equestria. And it didn't help that he was looking at me expectantly with kind eyes while flying forward.
I stole a glance at the saddlebag my glasses were in before answering. "It was my reading glasses."
Okay, here it comes. My chances of being a cool student are about. . . to. . . blow. . .
"Brilliant!"
I almost stopped flapping in midair. Did he just say 'brilliant'? To me rescuing my reading glasses like an awesome nerd? I didn't have to wait long before he continued.
"You must be really hard working if you would do a Sonic Rainboom to rescue your reading glasses. That's just the type of student the Academy is looking for," he said, somehow giving me a light pat on the back while avoiding contact with my wings.
I couldn't believe my luck. First impressions, success. I guess talking to other ponies like a normal friends wasn't so hard after all. Maybe I was just thinking to hard to actually be myself. However, just as I was about to thank him and give him a big hug, the trip was over.
"We're here, guys!" Splash announced, landing on a cloud. I averted my attention just in time to avoid tumbling heads-over-hooves onto the cloudy platform. Groaning, I looked up. . .
. . .and my jaw dropped open. In front of me was a large, elegant fountain running with strands of rainbow waterfalls. Behind the fountain, on either side were two large buildings graced with Cloudsdalian arches. In the middle of the two buildings, right behind the fountain, was a smaller building decorated with what looked like to be ancient pegasus-related symbols. Behind the train of buildings were two stadiums supported by separate cloud platforms, the one on the right slightly higher that the one on the left, connected by a crystalline waterfall. Surrounding half the perimeter of the clouds was a long, semi-circular track suspended on it's own cloud. There was a network of hoops divided into three sections, all protruding from the concrete.
Splash failed to hold back laughter at seeing my dumbfounded expression. "Yep, that's what they look like each time they first come here.
I shook my head rapidly to snap out of the trance. "Wha - Who?"
"You should have seen the look on your face," he answered plainly while chuckling.
"Well, you can blame your architects for creating such an amazing structure," I half-complimented. Seems like I've been getting better at comebacks lately. Splash grinned and opened his mouth to reply. . .
"Vice-Principal Splashing Flames, if you want to talk to her in private, you can talk later. You still have a tour to lead," the loud voice of Principal Stormcloud roped our attention again. "Newbies, I expect you to be on your best behavior. No horsing around, or you will receive a detention. Understand?"
I nodded, not daring to say anything out loud. Just because I could talk to Splash like a friend didn't mean that I was about to let my guard down anytime around Stormcloud. Unfortunately, keeping my mouth shut does NOT fall into the category of NOT letting my guard down.
"I asked you all a question," said Principal Stormcloud. "And I expect an answer. Let's try this again. Do you understand?"
I breathed in hard. "Yes, Principal Stormcloud." A little further to the side, I heard a 'Yes, we understand, Principal Stormcloud', and a 'Y-Yeah - I mean, yes'. It didn't even take a second to figure out who said what.
The principal gave a nod. "Improving. Vice-Principal Splashing Flames, you are in charge." Then, without any further words, she took off in the direction of the smaller building in the middle of the two larger ones.
I blinked, still unable to get over the ways of Principal Stormcloud. A light tap on my shoulder brought me back to reality.
"Trust me, you haven't seen the most of her yet," Splash assured as he led me to where my friends were waiting.
I took another look at the small building before flitting over. "Well that's comforting to know. So what now?"
Splash gave us a smile before he took off. "Follow me and I'll show you something."
Flare caught up to me as I took off after him. "How can you speak to the Vice-Principal so loosely?" she ask-whispered, confused as to why I wasn't all stiff and tensed up around him. "I thought we were expected to talk only when we are permitted to."
I allowed a small grin to creep up onto my face. Finally something I know and Flare doesn't. "He's not like Principal Stormcloud. In fact, he was the one who wanted me to relax and talk to him like a friend."
Then, Splash appeared out of nowhere right in front of me, making me jump in midair (if that's scientifically possible). "She's right! I'd prefer that you all relax and enjoy the tour, rather than drag you along while you're stiff as a statue." Then, his tone turned a little more serious. "Now I want you all to turn around so that you're facing the other way, THEN look down and tell me what you see."
I turned around in midair, Flare and Whirlwind doing the same, and looked down. The next moment, I was so glad my jaw was connected to my skull. Otherwise, it would have fallen down and ruined the spectacular view below.
The two buildings had taken the form of pegasus wings, now that she was seeing it from above. But not made of building material; no, it looked realistic, like as through a pair of large, feathery pegasus wings had taken the place of the buildings. The 'feathers' shimmered white, hinted with a bit of sky blue at the edges. In fact, the only thing that still looked like it was built from cloud was the small building in the middle, which now seemed a little more distant from the 'wings'. It was a beautiful, grand sight, one that must have taken centuries to build to make it look so realistic. I doubted it was even built in first place, seeing that it was so real and magical.
"So what do you see?" asked Splash.
I quickly closed my mouth before opening it to speak. "A pair of highly realistic pegasus wings."
"Same here," Flare spoke up from my left after blinking her eyes several times. Seems like even she was unable to find big words for the marvelous sight.
Whirlwind was still staring down, his eyes wide in a trance. I smacked him upside the head, causing him to blink and stutter, "O-Oh. Ditto."
Splash nodded in approval. "It's a beautiful piece of work, isn't it?" We all nodded in agreement. "Okay. Now move five feet backwards."
I did what I was told and looked down. And gasped.
The shimmering wings were gone. In their place were the cloud-built buildings. They were still in the shape of wings, only it was obvious that they were built from cloud. The feathers had turned into three buildings which I assumed could be classrooms, connected by a hallway, which was once the base of the wing. They no longer held the shimmer of the wings, which was replaced by the dullness of cloud built material.
"Vice-Principal Splashing Flames?" I heard Flare speak up in a quivering and confused voice. "I don't understand! H-How did - ?"
"Pegasus magic," Splash answered simply, despite the very confused looks he was getting. I gotta admit that guy sure knows how to handle things. "When the Academy was built, the plan was to use cloud as the base, then shower it with pegasus magic, so that it creates a special affect that only true pegasi can see."
"So you're saying that only true pegasi can see it?" Flare confirmed. "But why can't we see it now?"
"The effect only shows when you are flying directly on top of the building in the middle," explained Splash. He hovered forward a few feet and stopped when he was aligned with the building. "Now you try it."
I glided over next to where he was hovering while keeping within the perimeter of the building far below. I furrowed my brow in confusion when the wings still didn't appear.
Splash grabbed my hoof and tugged me over a few more feet, making me blush in embarrassment. "Yeah, it's a little hard to get in the exact spot when the building is so far down."
I looked down again, and sure enough there were the wings. Realistic and shimmering as always before. "Yep, I see it."
"Good," Splash nodded in approval. He beckoned Flare and Whirwind over, snapping them out of their daze. "Don't get too caught up, guys. You can always visit during break and afterschool. Now that that's taken care of, I am going to explain the purpose of each building." Then, he turned and started to fly back down to the buildings. The three of us glanced at each other the usual way before following.
It was only the beginning of the tour, and the Academy already wowed me more than I had imagined.
I rehearsed what I had learned so far over in my head. The main buildings, shaped like wings, topped with pegasus magic that created an effect of realistic wings only visible to true pegasi when they were positioned above that building in between the wings. How they managed to do that, it was pretty impressive. I hoped the rest of the Academy was just as amazing as what I had seen so far.
I followed Splash as he glided low over the left building. "This is the left wing, where you will be taking your classes as juniors." He pointed to the structure closest to the small building. "In there is the cafeteria, where you will be eating lunch in." He pointed to the one in the middle of the wing. "In there is the main classroom, where some of your classes will be taken." Finally he pointed to the largest one on the outside. "A finally, in there is another classroom, only it contains many elements which you will be experimenting with in some of your other classes. Just a heads up, make sure to watch your step when you enter that room. It tends to have the most accidents out of the three."
I nodded to show that I understood everything. This tour was just the beginning of a whole new experience at the Academy, and I was already excited and eager to learn. I literally couldn't wait to start exploring the whole place. And I mean literally, seeing as it hard to gain steady flight due to my wings being high on sugar (not that I feed them any sugar).
Splash led us over to the large building on the right. It was identical to the one we were going to take our classes in, only that it was symmetrical, just like a reflection of the left wing. "And this is the right wing, which you will enter after you have finished your studies as juniors."
At this point, Flare raised a hoof. Splash took notice of that and nodded for her to continue. Flare cleared her throat with a strange amount of importance and asked. "When do we complete our studies as juniors?"
"That's a good question," Splash tapped a his chin with a hoof thoughtfully. "It depends on how well you do in both academics and aerobatics. The average is two years as juniors and the next two as seniors before you graduate, but if you do exceptionally well, than we can promote you to seniors after one year. If that happens, you have a choice of either three years or two years as seniors."
Flare, Whirlwind, and I all stole a glance at each other. We were obviously all thinking the same thing; was it possible that we can all become seniors in just one year? If I were to answer that that question, I'd say yes. If they had my determination, then we were all sure to become some the youngest to ever become seniors in a year.
"Don't get your hopes up too high." Splash had apparently activated the ability read our minds and had decided to ruin the moment. "The junior years are the fun ones. Once you become a senior, you will wish you had remained a junior for a longer time," he chuckled. "Anyway, back to the tour."
He pointed at the small building in the middle. "That is the office. It is divided into two sections, one room for Principal Stormcloud, and one room for me. If you ever encounter an issue which the teachers might not be able to solve, you can always come to me. I answer mostly to the students while Principal Stormcloud answers to the parents."
I could most definitely agree. Splash seemed to be the friendly, laid-back type, which was perfect around kids, while Stormcloud was the stern, serious type, better for handling educational issues with parents.
Splash then pointed to the two stadium-like buildings suspended on clouds, connected by a thin waterfall. "Now, we are going to fly between those buildings, and as we fly, I want you to tell me what you think they are used for."
I observed the two buildings closely as I flew behind Splash. The lower one on the left looked a little more. . . closed, while the higher one on the right looked more open. "Um, I think the one on the right might be a stadium. . . and the one on the left looks like. . . - "
" - a gym?" Surprisingly, it was Whirlwind who finished for me. I see he hasn't completely lost his more talkative personality.
"You are both correct!" Splash announced gleefully, happy that we were able to guess correctly on first try. "Don't worry, I'm sure you'll get a chance to answer, too," he added when he noticed Flare's slightly crestfallen demeanor. She instantly brightened up at the thought of more opportunities.
"Anyway," Splash continued as he led us between the buildings. "The gym is will also be housing some of your classes, which will be on separate days than the ones inside the building. Occasionally, you will be allowed to play games during class, but since the gym isn't exactly built for games... ," he paused to turn to the stadium. "...you will have to hold all your games in the stadium. The stadium is also used for flight tests and performances, which apply to the seniors more than the juniors so you don't need to worry about it for now."
I suppressed a gulp. Games were fine for me, but flight tests and performances. . . I wasn't sure if I'd fare too well in those.
"Now we will visit the flight track," Splash told us as he took off and emerged on the other side of the buildings. I followed and my eyes widened at the sight before me.
Dang, the track was LONG! From afar, it already enveloped half the school's perimeter. But now that I was seeing it up close, it definitely was not going to be an easy flight. The hoops in middle of the width were a lot higher than I expected (not that I have problem with it).
"While the gym tests your strength and flexibility, the flight track exercises your speed and agility. The hoops are divided into three sections; easy, medium, and hard," Splash explained, as he motioned to the hoops on the right. "The ones on the right are the easy ones," - he pointed to the hoops in the middle - "the ones in the middle are medium," - finally, he pointed to the longest cluster on the left - "and the ones on the left are the hardest ones. Now what differences do you see between these three sections of hoops?"
Flare's hoof shot into the air as soon as she heard the question. Although I, too, knew the answer, I decided to restrain my hoof and let her have her turn. Splash pointed at her, permitting her to answer.
"The easy hoops are more spaced out and the height of the hoops don't differ too greatly, while the more challenging ones are clustered closer together and have a larger variety of heights," she stated confidently, happy that she got a chance to participate.
"Correct indeed!" Splash praised her answer. "The closer together the hoops are, the less time you'll have to react. I don't think you can see it from here, but there are a network of cloud rings surrounding the campus. We don't use them much for classes, but many students like to race through them during their free time."
Then, he turned and flew back through the buildings, with us following behind. "So that concludes the tour. If you have any questions, feel free to ask anytime," he concluded with a smile.
"Where do we go now?" asked Whirlwind. I can't blame him for asking - Splash did say 'feel free to ask anytime'.
"You're going to your first class in the left wing, specifically the classroom in the middle, where your teacher will introduce you to the class and give you the materials you will be needing for this school year," Splash answered as we ascended onto the cloud grounds right in front of the left wing. "So how do you think of the Academy so far?"
"Awesome!" Whirlwind blurted out immediately. Then, he closed his mouth and moved behind Flare, who had another speech of her own.
"It certainly was amazing, Vice-Principal," Flare announced formally. "Thank you for taking your time to entertain us with the tour. We look forward to our time at the Academy."
"It's looking pretty interesting, so far," I agreed in a much more casual manner. "Thanks for giving us the tour, Splash."
Whirlwind and Flare both stared when I accidentally called Splashing Flames by his nickname. I cursed my big mouth a million times to the moon, before trying to cover up my mistake. "Er, I mean, sir, Vice-Principal Splashing Flames."
Splash waved it aside like it was nothing. "Nah, it's fine. I wasn't the fancy, formal type anyway. Now hurry along, and I hope you enjoy class!" he sent us off with a smile.
Whirlwind and Flare trotted into the building, already conversing excitedly with each other. "What do you think of the Academy so far?" Flare inquired.
Whirlwind shrugged and answered. "I dunno yet, but I think he's a pretty cool guy."
I smiled to myself, about to join them, when I felt a tap on my back. Stopping, I turned to face Splash, who beckoned me outside. I followed him, trying not to sweat my eyes out. If I got in trouble on my very first day. . .
"Can I see your glasses?"
I blinked. Now THAT was completely out of the blue. Well, not completely, seeing as I had mentioned them in our earlier conversation, but it was still quite unexpected. I hesitantly slipped out my tattered glasses and held them out in my wing.
Splash scooped them off in his wing and looked at them closely. Then, his face broke into a warm smile. "I could get these fixed, if it's fine with you," he offered.
I blinked again. Him, the high-ranking vice-principal of the Academy, offering to fix a pair of glasses that belonged to me, a new junior student who was careless enough to get them broken?
"Um, it's alright, I was the one who got them broken, and I don't want to be a bother to you," I reclined, just barely managing not to stutter.
Now it was Splash's turn to blink. "Spectrum, you so-called broke these by doing a spectacular Sonic Rainboom. It's everything to be proud of. And don't you worry about being a bother. It never hurts to help somepony in need."
I just stood there with my mouth slightly agape, unsure of how to respond. Not wanting to find out how ridiculous I looked when I did that (in my opinion), I decided to let him have his way. "Oh, okay. Uh, thanks a lot." And then I ran out of words to say. Awk-ward.
"Hey, no problem," he reassured me. "I'll just get these fixed and return them to you tomorrow, first thing in the morning. And if you arrive at school before I do, you can wait outside my office. Alright?"
"Alright," I confirmed with a grin. Yep, he's definitely a nice guy.
"Now let's get you to class before your friends start getting suspicious," he ushered me into the building, then turned to leave. However, just as he left my line of sight. . .
"Wait!"
Spectrum, you IDIOT! My eyes widened in horror as the words escaped my mouth before I knew it. I desperately racked my brains for something to say. Something that wouldn't sound too ridiculous.
Splash zipped back in. "Yes?"
I took a deep breath. "Why are you being so nice to me?" Then, I tried to add more in case he took it the wrong way. "I mean, not that I don't appreciate your kindness. I'm just curious why."
Thankfully, he never took that bright, encouraging smile off his face. "Why not?" he replied with a wink before he zipped away.
I blinked for the third time, pondering what his 'very clear and detailed' answer meant. Then, I shrugged and marched into the building. Non-straight answers usually annoyed me, but I just couldn't be frustrated at Splash. After all, there wasn't really any reason NOT to be nice, right? I guessed that's what he meant with his 'very clear and detailed' answer. Maybe I did need to loosen up a little more.
Huh. Me, loosen up? Very likely indeed (lots of sarcasm there).
Just then, Whirlwind popped up right in front of my face with a very wide grin.
"Gah!" I recoiled, jumping a few steps backwards. The next moment, the theory that I do make the most ridiculous facial expressions was confirmed as Whirlwind burst out laughing. I flattened my brow and slapped him lightly across the face for the idiot he was. "What was that for?" I growled, fixing on him the deadliest death glare I could muster.
Unfortunately, death glares are ineffective when it comes to Whirlwind. "You should've seen the look on your face!" he cried between snorts of laughter. "Why didn't I bring a camera?"
Flare walked up from behind me and smirked. Yes, Flare can smirk. "I brought a camera," she announced. Then she switched to an unamused expression, just as Whirlwind started looking hopeful. "And no, Whirlwind, you not authorized to use it. I think poor Spectrum has suffered enough today."
"Hey!" I turned my glare onto Flare. "Where did the 'poor Spectrum' thing come from?"
"From my mind," Flare answered simply, for the first time today. "Anyway, what held you up? We were just about to enter class when we noticed that you were missing. We thought you might have gotten lost!"
"Nothing like that. Splash just offered to fix my glasses, since, you know, the Sonic Rainboom," I answered. The next moment, I wished I had put it in different words.
"Oooooh, getting special favors from the Vice-Principal, are you?" Whirlwind hovered upside-down in front of me. "How did you become vice-principal's pet so soon? Tell us your secrets!"
I shoved his head away. "No."
"My very accommodating friends and comrades, I think we should be getting to class soon," Flare reminded us with a sigh. "We should have shown up a long time ago, if I remember clearly."
My ears shot up in panic. Flare was right - we had been dropped off at least five minutes ago. Five minutes ago. This means that we were at least five minutes late. And if we ended up being five minutes late to our first day of class. . .
"HOLY CRAP, we're REALLY late!"
With that said, I shot down the hall with Flare and Whirlwind clinging on to me for dear life.
Cause if we were gonna be late, we might as well make it look heroic.
"Hello, you must be the three new students, Whirlwind, Flaring Mist, and Spectrum Skies, I presume?"
I looked up to see a very pale blue mare in the staff uniform making her way towards us. Her white hair with silver streaks through it was bundled up in a tight bun, giving her a very strict, professional look. Her expression, however, mirrored her voice, which was one of concern.
Of course, I wasn't surprised. I mean, you'd certainly be concerned if three ponies who were said to be new students suddenly show up in the doorway, late, with two of them clinging to one that looked no less insane than the other two combined. If I were allowed to use as much sarcasm as I wanted, I'd say that we made quite the good expression on the whole class.
Thankfully, at that moment, Flare decided to bravely speak up for our actions. "We are truly apologetic for barging into class tardy like that, especially on our first day, and we promise that we will try to make sure it will never happen again."
The mare raised an eyebrow, increasing our nerves by at least ten percent. "It's not common that new students make quite the impression on their first day, but since you so sincerely apologized," - her mouth curved up in a small smile - "we would like to welcome you and introduce you to your first class."
She led us to three vacant seats at the middle of the classroom. Flare filed in first and Whirlwind stayed behind me, leaving me no choice but to take the seat in the middle. As in the exact middle of the whole entire classroom, where everyone could no doubt have their eyes on me, with or without me knowing. My eyes darted around uncomfortably as I set my saddlebag next to my seat and waited.
"I am Professor Cloudy Cirrus, although I'd prefer that you address me by my last name, and I will be your history and economics teacher for this school year," the professor introduced herself. "Now why don't you tell us a little about yourselves?"
Flare took no time to hesitate. "I'm Flaring Mist, but my friends usually call me Flare."
I gulped as I realized that I was next in line. "I-I'm Spectrum Skies, and. . . ," I trailed off when I realized that I didn't really have anything else interesting to say. Trying to ignore the awkward silence in the room, I turned to Whirlwind, my last hope, with pleading eyes.
Whirlwind was inspecting a dent in his cloud desk, completely oblivious to what was going on around him. I gave him a quick jab in the gut, waking him with a start.
"Wha - Oh! Uh, I'm Whirlwind, the son of Fleetfoot and Cal - ," he caught himself RIGHT after he had just 'accidently' let it slip. But it was too late. Not even the strongest glares Flare and I gave him could repair the damage he had caused to our 'secret'.
"Oh, how could I have not recognized you three?" Professor Cirrus butted in, looking at us curiously. Murmurs spread throughout the room, and I even caught a few words such as 'children' and 'Wonderbolts'. If I could be an alicorn, now would be a good time to disappear before I got mobbed by a crowd of so-called fans.
Whirlwind fidgeted very uncomfortably, both under the attention the class was giving him and the glares from Flare and me. "Er, it's not really important. . . ," he tried to cover his mistake. And he failed.
Like we totally did not embarrass ourselves right there.
At that moment, Professor Cirrus grinned very widely and turned to address the whole class. "Well, it seems like we'll be having class with the daughters and son of actual Wonderbolts! Don't forget to give them a very warm welcome during your free time and show them how great the Academy is."
Then, thankfully, her tone became serious again and she moved over to the chalkboard to start class. "Now that we've gotten to know our three new students, we will continue our first unit, the history of Equestria and how it affects Cloudsdale today. It all started when Commander Hurricane, the leader of the pegasi, decided to attend the royal summit along with Princess Platinum and Chancellor Puddinghead, the leaders of the unicorn and Earth pony tribes. . . "
I whisked out my notebook from the jumbled depths of my saddlebags and hurried to jot down several notes as Professor Cirrus explained the history of Equestria. Flare sat straight and listened attentively, although she didn't take down any notes. Whirlwind, however, was having trouble concentrating like always. He kept on getting distracted by little things like. . . the wall, for instance.
I nudged my notebook over to him as he continued to stare at the 'amazing' wall. I always had to lend him my notebook every time he zoned off, so that he could catch up when he was at home. Really, I don't even know how that kid can learn anything if he can get distracted by something so simple as a wall.
And so, two of us spent the next hour listening to Professor Cirrus drone on about how the three leaders and their assistants managed to create Equestria from a bit more than scratch, while one of us continued to drowse in the fabulousness of the mighty wall.
"And that was how Equestria was first created! Any questions?"
I blinked my eyes open. The whiteness of the cloud-built classroom stung my eyes for a second, but I adjusted quickly. I shook my head out, trying to get rid of the dizziness that covered me as if I had just woken up from a nice long sleep. Cause who knows, maybe I actually HAD just woken up from a nice long -
Wait. Did I just fall asleep during a lesson? Now that didn't quite right. I mean, Spectrum Skies, semi-egghead and role model student, falling asleep during class? Heh, like that could ever happen. I do not simply fall asleep during class.
A light prodding at my side caught my attention. "Uh, Spectrum?" Flare retracted her hoof as I turned to her questionably. "You kind of. . . er, hibernated during class."
My eyes almost stretched beyond their limits in panic. "Wait, what?! You're saying I fell asleep during class?"
My fears were confirmed when Whirlwind heard my voice and turned to me with a false smile on his face. "Oh, howdy there! You're finally awake! Did you enjoy your nap?"
. . . SHAME ON ME.
I propped my elbow up on my desk and sunk my head into my hoof. "Yeah, it was totally worth it," I groaned while snapping back at him sarcastically.
"I must admit, that explanation was a tad too long," Flare commented while trying to stifle a yawn that escaped her mouth.
"A tad too long?" Whirlwind raised an eyebrow amusingly. "First of all, since when did you start using phrases like that? Second of all. . . ," he turned to me with noticeable dark circles under his eyes, which made me gulp in both fear and concern. "You now owe me ten sodas."
". . . Why do I owe you ten sodas?"
He groaned heavily and pushed something onto my desk. I took a closer look and gasped. It was my notebook. And it was filled with notes. I couldn't believe it. Out of all ponies, Whirlwind, the usual trouble-maker who always got distracted in class, had taken my notes for me while I, the usual role-model student who always paid attention in class until now, had literally snoozed off during my first class at the Academy. Wow. Just wow.
"Y-You actually did all of this? For me?" I stuttered, not daring to believe what I learned, despite the proof being laid out right in front of me.
Whirlwind tried to do his usual casual shrug, but the effect was killed by the noticeable signs of fatigue he was displaying. "It doesn't hurt to let you take a break for a while, seeing as how hard you usually study. Besides," he paused to yawn. "we can't let our best friend down. . . right. . . ?"
I just stared at the notebook. Sure, the notes were definitely messy and had 'Whirlwind' written all over it (not literally), but they were still notes. And seeing that my friend had torn his very own eyes away from the wall, just to take my notes for me while I slacked off, was more than equivalent to this year's Hearth's Warming Eve present.
I continued to stare at the notebook.
Three. . .
Two. . .
One. . .
"Thank you, thank you, thank you so much!"
To my horror, my body completely defied my mind as I leapt out of my seat and threw my arms around Whirlwind. I kept in that position for a moment, then frowned when Whirlwind showed completely no response. I was about to question him when another voice spoke up.
"Spectrum, Whirlwind, is there anything I need to repeat?"
I immediately let go of Whirlwind and leapt back into my seat, my face feeling as though it was on fire. "Er, everything's fine, Professor Cirrus. I was just thanking Whirlwind for. . . letting me borrow his pencil," I half-lied, glancing at the pencil that was returned with my notebook. The notebook may be mine, but that was Whirlwind's pencil, so you can't say I completely lied.
"Then you have a strange way of thanking him," Professor Cirrus commented in a serious, yet amused tone earning a few snickers from the students that made me cover my face with my hooves. Then, she turned to the class. "Alright, juniors, we will continue the lesson after break, where I will have an assignment ready for you. Class dismissed!"
The class dispersed, chattering and groaning as they stood up and exited out the door. Several of them stole a glance at us, partially because we were children of Wonderbolts, and also partially because of the little scene caused by me. If I could charge tickets that cost ten bits for every little scene I cause that I DON'T want noticed, I'd be very rich by now.
I turned back to Whirlwind, a snort escaping my mouth as soon as I laid my eyes on him. His head was slumped across his desk, his eyes were closed, and his mouth was slightly agape with a small pool of drool forming underneath. I snickered as a light snore escaped his mouth. Well, I guess now he knows how it's like for me every time I take notes for him.
I turned over to Flare. "Hey, Flare, can you help me get this lump - ," I broke off in surprise.
Flaring Mist was also asleep, only that her head was resting on a. . . pillow, which seemed to come out of nowhere. I flattened my brow. So apparently I was the only one still awake. Well, serves me right for being the only one to fall asleep during class. I sighed and reclined back into my seat. Then, my eyes settled on Professor Cirrus, who was scribbling something on her teacher's desk.
"Professor?" I asked through the silence of the room.
"Yes, Spectrum?"
"Do you mind if we stay here for break?"
"Not at all. I've had plenty of students stay back for break, and I don't see anything wrong with it," the professor answered without even looking up.
I fell silent for a moment as awkward silence resumed. Then, Whirlwind let out another series of light snores, increasing the awkwardness by some. I desperately racked my brains for something good to say, when a question suddenly fell into my head.
"Professor Cirrus, you said that there going to be an assignment."
"Mm-hm."
"Can you tell us what it's about?"
Professor Cirrus looked up from her desk for the first time. "I'd usually prefer not to tell students ahead of time, but since it's your first day, I'll give you a head start to brainstorm ideas. You are going to create a poster sized comic strip on what we just learned."
"When is it due?" I blurted out before I could stop myself.
"On Wednesday."
My mind seemed to generate more questions than my mouth can deliver these days. "Wait, don't we have class tomorrow?"
Professor Cirrus suddenly stood up, as though she had just been reminded of something. "The vice-principal hasn't given you your schedules yet? I thought he had explained it all."
"Er, he said that it will be explained during class," I answered in an uncharacteristically small voice, trying to sound as innocent as possible.
The professor sighed and took out three folders. "That young colt can be a little tricky at times," she growled as she glided over to our desks with the folders. She stole an amused glance at Whirlwind and Flare, who were both still asleep, then placed the folders at my hooves. "Each of these contain your schedules, which you will follow throughout the year."
I opened a folder to take a look at the schedule when I realized what Professor Cirrus had just said. "Young colt? What do you mean by that? If you don't mind me asking," I added, just for safety.
"Believe it or not, Vice-Principal Splashing Flames is the youngest staff member at our school. Why, he just graduated from the Academy as the top student, only a few years ago," Professor Cirrus chuckled, recalling the memory. "The whole school was betting on whether he'd make it, when he filled in the application to replace Principal Stormcloud, who had just been promoted from vice-principal to principal."
"So what happened?" I leaned forward with interest, eager to hear the rest.
"Let's just say that the majority of the students provided quite a filling donation to our school."
I let out a light laugh. "He seemed like a pretty cool guy. I mean, he's not very strict, but he can still keep things under control."
"Yes, that is a very special talent indeed," Professor Cirrus agreed with a smile. "Now you can wake your friends or look over your schedule, because I've got some work to do."
Typical me, always pestering the teachers until they got sick of it. I shrugged and looked over my schedule. Monday was sorted as a 'classroom day'. Looking at the key, I assumed that we were most likely going to be staying in the building today, stuck with history and economics, and later, elemental studies. I looked back at the schedule and saw that Tuesday (tomorrow) was a gym and track day. It didn't take long to guess that we were going to be spending all of tomorrow working ourselves out in the gym and tripping over each other on the flight track.
Wednesday, however, looked different. Instead of just 'classroom day', or 'gym and track day', it merely said 'all courses'. I looked back at the key and saw that it did indeed include all courses. My eyes wandered over to the daily schedule that was placed right on the next page, hoping that it might clear things up a little more.
DAILY SCHEDULE 8:30 - Start of school 10:15 to 10:45 - 1st break 12:30 to 1:15 - Lunch 3:15 to 3:45 - 2nd break 5:30 - End of school
So I guess that did clear things up, didn't it?
I looked at the rest of the week. Thursday was a 'classroom day', and Friday was a 'gym and track day'. I looked down at the rest of the month and saw that it followed the same pattern; Mondays and Thursdays were 'classroom days', Tuesdays and Fridays were 'gym and track days', and Wednesdays were 'all courses' days. I guess that explained why the new assignment was to be due on Wednesday.
I glanced over at the clock and saw that it read 10:30. Fifteen minutes passed and fifteen more to go. I guess it wouldn't hurt to start brainstorming ideas. But here's the joke: apparently, it's not possible to brain ideas, and therefore, it's not possible to storm ideas, either.
So, long story short, I spent the next fifteen minutes trying to figure out how to brain and storm ideas at the same time.
"Alright, class, welcome back to history and economics. During this session, I will be assigning you a new assignment, which you will start and work on for the next hour and forty-five minutes."
Professor Cirrus' voices rang out loud and clear and echoed throughout the classroom. I jerked my head up to see the rest of the class starting to file into their seats. Glancing to both sides, I saw that Flare and Whirlwind were still asleep. Oh joy. Seems like I get the honor of waking them up.
I prodded Whirlwind in the ribs. He let out a particularly loud snort but didn't wake up. I frowned, then raised my hoof up. . . and brought it down across his face. He awoke with a start. "Mom. . . ?"
I groaned and smacked my hoof over my own face. "Class is starting, doofus."
"Oh. . . ," he muttered with a dreamy smile. I don't even want to know what he dreams about.
Shaking my head slowly, I turned to Flare. I flattened my brow so that the slope was exactly at zero (yes, I do algebra), when I saw that she was still asleep. Not wanting to wake her like I woke Whirlwind, I gently tapped her shoulder. She stirred a little but didn't wake up. I sighed, then reached to tap her sensitive spots on the tip of her wing. And I immediately regretted it.
Fwoomp! Her wing shot out with no warning whatsoever, almost knocking me clean off my seat. I quickly grabbed the desk before I could hit the ground. I would've cursed myself first for forgetting that Flare has extremely sensitive wing tips, but I guess saving myself from breaking my head on the ground comes in top priority at the moment.
"Oh! Are you alright?" I looked over to see Flare staring at me with wide eyes, both of her hooves over her mouth. I immediately felt sorry for her. After all, it's her parent's, mostly her mom's fault that she has sensitive wing tips, not hers.
"Yeah, I'm fine," I reassured her, messaging the spot on my forehead, where her wing had smacked me. Well, that's gonna leave a mark. I didn't dare linger on the subject any longer as Professor Cirrus came by our desks and gave us each a large, poster-sized piece of paper.
"Your assignment is to create a comic strip on how the three leaders formed Equestria. You may use colored pencils, crayons, markers, paint, anything as long as it doesn't appear messy. Your final work will be graded on the accuracy of the information, and how much effort you put in. Any questions?"
Nopony dared to raise their hoof.
"Okay, good. You have the rest of class to work. Whatever you do not finish is homework, which will be due by Wednesday. Start working!"
There was a lot of shuffling as the students hurried to get to work. I dug into my saddlebags and pulled out an eraser, a pack of colored pencils, and a box of markers. Using a pencil, I divided the poster into eight boxes. Just then, I felt a tap on my shoulder.
"Yes, Whirlwind?" I answered without even looking up.
"Could I borrow some supplies?"
"Surrrre. . . ," I sighed, pushing the supplies a little closer to him. He answered with a 'Thanks.', and simply grabbed the markers off my desk. I raised an eyebrow at him, wondering why he would use markers before drawing the outline with pencil. I'm no artist, but even I could tell he was going to regret this.
Five seconds later. . .
"Aw, ponyfeathers! Spectrum, did you bring any white-out?"
Chapter 7: Elemental Studies and a VERY Bizarre Greeting
I carefully folded my comic strip and slipped it nicely into my saddlebag. Then, I collected my colored pencils and eraser and put them back where exactly they belonged. Noticing that my markers were still missing, I turned to Whirlwind and demanded my markers back.
"Oh, you mean these?" he picked up a box of markers that had fallen on the floor. I gave him an unamused stare. "Don't ask me how they got there, I have absolutely no idea," he 'confessed', putting the markers on my desk and holding his hooves up 'innocently'. I increased the unamusing-ness of my stare by fifty percent, before swapping the markers off my desk and putting them back in my saddlebag.
"I suppose we go to lunch now," Flare trotted in front of us, her saddlebags already set and ready to go. "I do speculate what variety of food they have here."
"Knowing you, I think 'speculate' is putting it a little too lightly," I attempted to joke. Flare rolled her eyes, the way she did whenever she heard a poorly attempted joke. Well, I guess now I know my skill when it comes to joking. Thank you, Flare.
"Arrrrrrrgh, I'm starving," Whirlwind groaned as he dragged himself off his seat to join Flare, his saddlebag hanging over his head. Flare gave him a 'what the hay' look, before pushing his saddlebag down to his back, where it kind of belonged. He jumped with a 'whoa!' as it slammed down over his wings. Then, he turned to Flare with mirroring 'what the hay' look.
I thought back to something Flare had said a lot earlier that day, when we were still at Cloudsdale High. Then, I grinned deviously and spoke, imitating Flare's voice. "I hate to break up your rather romantic affair, but we should really be getting to lunch now."
And Flare's demeanor completely snapped. "Hey! That's MY line!"
"Nope, not anymore," I answered simply and trotted to the door, with Flare grumbling behind me, and Whirlwind whining about how is stomach kept on arguing with him.
Yep, this was going to be a loooooong day.
"Ooooh, what's in here? Turkey? Ham? Chicken? Pony meat?"
I winced slightly in disgust at Whirlwind's last attempt at guessing. "That's a turkey sandwich, smart one. Not all of us are cannibals like you."
"I knew tha - Hey!" Whirlwind cried as he figured out what I had just said. Even Flare laughed a little at our reactions. I gave them both a smug grin, knowing that I had one this round.
I sat down at one of the tables closest to the windows. The cafeteria was actually quite spacy, even though it contained the same number of students and was smaller than the classroom. There was long buffet style lunch line on one side, and the tables where scattered around different parts of the cafeteria. Just like in my old school, I had the habit of sitting at the corner, where everything was peace and quiet.
Most of the time.
"Mmm. . . I never knew pony meat could taste so good. . ."
I choked on the bite of my sandwich I had just taken. Thankfully, Flare beat me to it while I continued to loose the fight to turkey sandwich. "That's repulsive, Whirlwind!" she chastised him, standing up and scowling at him in disgust. "You need to stop thinking such nasty thoughts and please do keep you're mouth closed while you're chewing!"
Whirlwind ceased his purposely loud smacking and glared up at Flare. "Fine, sheesh, mom, I was just joking. . ."
Flare fixed her 'I'm watching you' look on him as she slowly sat down and resumed eating with the best table manners I had ever seen. Whirlwind let out a loud belch, but still continued to eat with the worst table manners I had ever seen, completely ignoring Flare's look of disapproval.
I took a swig of water, thankfully washing down the last bits of turkey sandwich. Then, I decided to switch to eating my fruit salad instead, just to avoid picking any more fights with my turkey sandwich.
Honesty, I have no idea what's worse: getting chastised by Flare for bad table manners, or almost losing a fight to turkey sandwich.
"That was - *belch* - a good lunch," Whirlwind commented satisfyingly as we headed to our next class, elemental studies. "Although it would be better if they allowed thirds."
Flare sighed and shook her head. "Sometimes, I wonder how you can even fly with all that food you consume."
"Hey, I need extra food to fuel up my awesomeness," Whirlwind smirked. "Unlike some ponies."
Flare opened her mouth to retort, but at that moment, I decided that it would be a good time to step in just before things started heating up. "Hey guys, we're here," I announced as I carefully pushed open a particularly heavy door that protected the elemental studies classroom.
We all looked in and gasped in awe.
The elemental studies classroom was amazing. It was way bigger than the history and economics classroom, maybe just a little less than twice it's size. But it wasn't just the size that captured our attention.
The room was filled with elements. Hanging from the ceiling where tubes that blasted strong gusts of wind. Arrays of strangely shaped water sprinklers aligned the walls. There was a wild network of fire rods and steel wires that enveloped the room like a roller coaster, ridden by a spark of fire once in a while. In the corners, highly secured behind see-through cabinets, were jars of lightning, labeled with colors and degrees of danger. In the middle were a series of levers and buttons, which I was sure must be the controllers of all the technology in the room. At the back of the room, far away from where we were standing, were a group of students wearing goggles, lab suits, and gloves crowded around a large, circular table.
"Oh god, what an eyesore," Whirlwind groaned as he rubbed his eyes and stretched them even wider to take in the view.
I had to agree with Whirlwind. It was so vibrant and filled with wonders that it did make my eyes water. But at the same time, I couldn't wait to just step right in there and start experimenting with the elements. Oh, this class was going to be so much fun.
"Welcome to elemental studies!" a bright, cheery voice caught out attention. I looked at the source of the voice: a young white mare with a slightly messy bun of curly, pale blue mane. The first thing that hit me was how similar she looked to Professor Cloudy Cirrus, despite her looking younger and a lot more...energetic?
"You must be Spectrum Skies!" she suddenly popped up right in front of my face, nearly giving me a heart attack. "You know, the daughter-of-Rainbowdash-and-Soarin-who-has-a-little-brother-called-Prism-and-just-performed-the-legendary-Sonic-Rainboom-this-morning??? Of course it's you!"
What the buck just happened.
Before I could mentally process what I had just witnessed, I heard a 'GAH!' from Whirlwind. I looked over to see him leaning as far back as possible while the mare chattered nonstop right in front of his face. "Hey, you must be Whirlwind, the son of that really fast turquoise mare and that really strong light blue stallion! What was that guy's name again? Calm...Calm Breeze? Still Wind? Nice to meet you anyway!"
As much as the mare was starting to freak me out, it was still nice to see Whirlwind getting stumped.
Flare tried to make a proper introduction before the mare did. "Hello, Professor, I'm Flaring Mist, the daughter of - " She never got a chance to finish.
"Fire Fly and Misty Streak? Oops, I meant Fire Streak and Misty Fly! Silly me, always getting the names mixed up," she giggled and suddenly disappeared and reappeared in the middle of the room, where all the controllers were. A semi-insane mare at the controllers. . . oh no. . .
"Now that we've all gotten a chance to know each other as besties, I am going to introduce myself," she disappeared behind the controllers, causing a temporary panic attack to the three of us. Then, when she reappeared, she was wearing a pair of pink-rimmed goggles, pink gloves, and a lab suit that was a little differently designed than that of the students.
"I am the great and almighty Professor Cloudy Cumulus!" she stood on the controllers using only her hind legs and raised her forelegs dramatically. "I control the wind and the water! I am the creator of the storms and the clouds and the deadly typhoOOOWHOOOAAAAAA - !"
A pale blue hoof had reached out and cuffed 'Professor' Cumulus around the head, dragging her down from the controllers. "Please don't mind my slightly psychotic sister. She can be a little dramatic at times," said a VERY familiar voice. I looked up and got rewarded with another near heart attack.
It was Professor Cloudy Cirrus.
"P-Professor Cirrus?" Flare spluttered after a pause of silence. "Y-You're her sister? B-But - !" She looked between the mare calmly strangling the other mare, and the mare being strangled by the other.
Professor Cirrus sighed and rolled her eyes at her sister's crazy antics. "I understand that's it's hard to believe that we are related, but you will have to accept that as a fact if you are going to be spending this year and maybe the next year with us."
Now it was my turn to ask. "Wait, so you two are both going to be teaching elemental studies?"
She nodded. "That's absolutely right. Professor Cumulus - ," she paused to glance down at her sister, who was blowing bubbles with great interest. " - is experienced in controlling water and wind, while I am more experienced in the art of controlling fire and lightning. You will be switching between the two of us so that you can learn the basics of controlling all four elements."
Flare, Whirlwind, and I glanced at each other, all thinking the same thing. I shakily raised my hoof, hoping it would come back in one piece.
"Yes, Spectrum?" Thankfully, it was Professor Cirrus who answered.
"So which one are we going to start with?"
"You'll be reviewing all four in each class," she answered with a smile. "But why don't you put on your lab coats, gloves, and goggles so that you could join the other students? I was just teaching them how lightning works."
"Sure!" I responded, now eager to learn despite the insanity that might befall me if I wasn't careful. Then, I realized that we didn't have any lab coats. Just as I opened my mouth to ask. . .
I was suddenly wearing a lab coat that fit my size exactly, along with a pair of goggles propped up on my forehead and a pair of gloves covering my front hooves. A sudden yelp and a gasp told me that Flare and Whirlwind had also befallen the same fate. Somehow, I was not at all surprised to see 'Professor' Cumulus, who had somehow escaped her sister's death grip, floating above us and wearing all three of our saddlebags.
"Free laundry delivery, fast, flying, and free of charge!" 'Professor' Cumulus saluted us and dumped our saddlebags in what looked like a cloud pouch. She giggled at the looks of horror on our faces as the cloud pouch literally devoured our saddlebags, complete and whole. "Oh sillies, you won't be needing these. Here in elemental studies, you're supposed to get your hooves dirty, not sit in a borin' ol' classroom and read borin' ol' books all day. Right, sissy?"
Professor Cirrus was seriously struggling to keep her professional demeanor. "Professor Cloudy Cumulus, you were specifically instructed to introduce the new students to elemental studies, then organize your plans for your own lessons."
'Professor' Cumulus' eyes widened, then she smiled sheepishly and giggled. "Oh, right! Silly me, how could I have forgotten? See y'all later!" With that she zipped away to who-knows-where.
And that concludes the story of 'Professor' Cumulus' insanity.
Well, at least for now.
"You will eventually have to get used to her, if you're going to survive this class," Professor Cirrus grumbled, as she led us towards the table in the back. "She could be a real hooffull at times, but she means well."
I shuddered to think of what power 'Professor' Cumulus would have if she were evil. "I'm sure we'll get used to it eventually," I assured her, despite the fact that I was freaking out on the inside. "She kind of reminds me of a certain Wonderbolt."
"I suppose you are referring to Surprise?" Flare whispered to me, just out of earshot. Any more Wonderbolt related stuff for the day, and I think I'll be ready to explode.
I gave a her quick nod before finding a spot at the table that wasn't occupied. The other students ceased their conversations as they saw us approach, being quick to make room for us. I smiled at the kind gesture, then dropped to a frown when I realized that they were only doing this because of our parents' reputations. The professors just HAD to bring it up in both classes, didn't they?
"Whoa, cool!" Whirlwind exclaimed from right next to me. I looked to the center of the table to see a basin - with sparks of lightning jumping around within it. I had to admit, that was pretty cool.
"Lightning, or electricity, as you will find out later on, is a highly dangerous element to work with," Professor Cirrus began sternly, making sure that she had everypony's attention. "There will be no fooling around in this class whatsoever, no matter which element you're working with. In fact, one wrong move with the most dangerous type of lightning can cause severe internal damage to your nerve system. Today, we are just going to learn the principles of how to control lightning."
Several 'awww's chorused throughout the group. As much as I understood why Professor Cirrus didn't want us actually handling lightning on the first day, I couldn't help feeling a bit disappointed. Like the rest of the group, I had been looking forward to finally getting a chance to handle lightning.
Professor Cirrus tried to give us a reassuring smile, though it looked very forced. "Don't worry, you'll be much better at handling electricity after you've learned about it first, I can guarantee you that."
The students' faces lit up a bit, mine included. Of course I'd have to learn about it first before I actually started playing with it. Thank the safety first rule for that.
"Now, lightning is collected from thunderclouds, which are formed when flames are absorbed into clouds. This electricity here - ," she motioned to the ribbons of lightning still dancing within the basin. " - was just collected yesterday, so you can see that it's been preserved and released today. Now, you might be asking, how does electricity form from the start and how to we collect it?
"First, you will need clouds. Clouds can be formed by advanced water and wind manipulation, which you will learn later. Then, you will only need a few sparks of flames to add to the cloud to turn it into a thundercloud, which will release bolts of electricity. Too much heat will make the thundercloud too dangerous to work with. So as you see, all the elements work together in one way or another.
"Now, lightning cannot simply be maintained in a jar without somepony controlling it. In fact, these jars - ," she motioned to the jars in the nearest corner. " - and this basin here - ," she pointed at the basin. " - are made of a special material made to preserve lightning. But it is highly impossible to place lightning directly into a container. Now move aside, please, so I can show you something."
I shuffled back a few steps, but still keeping the electricity clear in my sight. Professor Cirrus approached the electricity with a jar in one wing. I pondered for a moment on what she was about to do, then gasped in excitement. She was actually going to handle electricity! I leaned forward so much that Flare had to place a hoof on my back to keep me from toppling over.
Professor Cirrus rolled up the sleeve of her right foreleg all the way and pulled her glove off. Then, she carefully dipped her hoof in the basin. Bolts of electricity shot to her hoof like magnets, collecting and dancing in ribbons around her hoof. She waited until all the lightning in the basin was crackling around her hoof and her mid-foreleg. Then, she held the jar up in front of her with her wings, pulled her hoof back, and ZAP!
With one strong punch, all the electricity shot off her hoof and right into the jar, where it crackled madly, begging to be set free. Professor Cirrus merely shrugged in response and slammed the lid on with her other hoof. "And that, kids, is how you handle lightning," she said casually, while the students stared at her in awe.
"Now that you've seen how lightning can be handled, we will move on to fire." She put the jar back on the shelf and led the way to the next station.
"It wasn't that bad, wasn't it? I thought it was quite an intriguing learning experience."
"Says you, Flare," I groaned, wincing as I placed my hoof on the ground. "At least you didn't get burned by accident."
"I didn't get burned, because I listen to directions," she retorted.
"Hey, it's not my fault that fire decided to lash out at me."
Flare responded with a giggle. "Maybe it just wishes to be your friend."
"Ugh, whatever. I just hope we have better luck with water and wind."
"Speaking of wind, did Whirlwind just disappear?"
We both stopped and looked around in confusion. If I remembered correctly, Whirlwind had accompanied us out of the classroom. Now, he was nowhere to be seen. Of course, that wasn't very uncommon, knowing Whirlwind and his usual antics, but what could he possibly be up to this time?
"Ah...urgh...OW, crap-crap-crap!"
I turned around and gasped in shock. Sure enough, Whirlwind was there. . . only that his mane was so messy and tangled up that it was nearly unrecognizable. That wasn't helping with his very drowsy and slightly annoyed expression, either, or his body covered in small but noticeable bruises. He looked had he had been run over by a train of tornadoes, or something.
Flare let out a very loud gasp. "Whirlwind! What happened to you? Are you okay?"
Whirlwind stumbled as he tried to regain his steps. "I just wanted to learn how to handle wind ahead of time," he shrugged and tried to smile sheepishly. "But I guess I should have waited until class starts again."
I groaned. Again.
"Whirlwind, I would totally slap you right now if you didn't have enough bruises already."
Chapter 8: Warning - Contains Glue Sticks and LOTS of Drama
I dragged my saddlebags through the doorway of my cloud house. Thank Celestia school was finally over, or my mane would officially become part of a miniature windstorm. If there was one thing I learned today, it was that handling elements are not as easy as it seems.
Whirlwind had been right when he said that wind was a lot harder to handle than he thought. We had been forced to stand in front the deadly air-vomiting tubes and try to resist the wind. I was lucky I didn't get as many bruises as him. Water had been no easier. Even Flare ran out of words to say after she had been drenched in cold water (courtesy of prankster Cumulus).
Sighing in frustration, I quietly closed the door and tip-hoofed towards the stairs leading to my room. Although my body did ache in some places, I knew it would be worth it. It was always worth it I could make it to my room without rousing my brother. Quietly spread my wings, I glided up the stairs, remembering not to make any sudden changes in the air. I let out the long breath I had been holding as my hooves touched the floor.
Yes. I had made it to my room. Smiling in success, I locked the door to my room to ensure privacy and threw down my saddlebags. Then, just as I took out my comic poster and my supplies, I noticed something. Something that made me freak out.
"PRISM BLITZ! WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING IN MY ROOM!?"
Prism yelped and jumped so high that he hit his head on the ceiling. Something flew from his grip and fell to the floor, where it rolled to a stop. He crashed back down onto my chair, hitting his head on my desk. I gasped, fearing my chair and my desk. If I saw ANY damage to my furniture. . . even the slightest bit. . .
"OW! Sheesh, sis, did you have to scare me like that?" Then, he paused and realized what he had just said. "HA! I was just joking! I'm not scared of ANYTHING!"
I was buying none of it. Instead, I walked over to the object that had flown out of his dirty hooves and looked at it. It was a glue stick. And it's lid was missing, so I could see that it was nearly all used up.
Oh, Prism was going to pay for this. With his weekly allowances, of course.
I stomped over to him and growled. "What. Else. Did you touch?!" I demanded, glaring less than a foot from his face. I didn't care that I was being an absolute hypocrite by breaking my own rule on personal space - I gave ponies what they deserved, so screw the rules.
Prism shrugged and kept up with that annoyingly smug smile. "Nothing much. . . JUST USED UP ALL YOUR GLUE STICKS!" And with that, the little rascal burst out laughing at what he'd call a hilariously successful prank.
My eye twitched. No. . . not my glue sticks, too. First my glasses, now my glue sticks. . .
I frantically reached for my drawer of glue sticks and tugged it open. I closed my eyes for a moment, wishing that this was all just a nightmare, and that I would wake up any second, finding my glue sticks safe and sound and Prism nowhere to be seen. But no, when I opened my eyes. . .
. . . all I saw was nothing. Nothing. Just an empty drawer. No glue sticks, only a few swabs of glue stuck to the wood. I blinked and looked over at my brother. He was now rolling on the floor, laughing his head off at what I would call one of "Prism's Particularly Profoundly Poorly Planned Pranks". Yes, that's six 'P's there. Then, I something in the trash can next to my desk caught my attention. I looked in there and saw all of them, all ten of them, laying there in the trash can.
I tried my best to control the rage that was building up inside of me. Nopony, I repeat, nopony messes with my supplies without permission. Even Whirlwind asks to borrow my things before using them. But here, Prism had crossed the line multiple times. And after a day of unintentional Sonic Rainbooms, broken glasses, terrible tardies, falling asleep during class, meeting new mental ponies, getting burnt by fire, battered by wind, drenched in water, and enduring a long flight home, I was NOT going to let him have it.
"Prism, what did you use all my glue sticks for?" I asked veeeerrrry calmly, forcing a small, patient smile onto my face.
He looked up, a little baffled by my kind, patient tone, but remained his usual self nonetheless. "Oh, it's for a project. My teacher told us to make these folded up figures with strange wings out of paper to see how they relate to gliding!"
I kept the nice, calm smile on my face. "That sounds pretty cool! You wouldn't mind if I saw this project of yours, wouldn't you?"
His face lit up with a grin. "Not at all! Ha, you're gonna be sooooo jealous when you see how awesome my project is!" He picked up what I had 'mistook' for a deformed piece of crumbled paper.
I took the strange object in my hoof and brought it up to my face for closer inspection. It looked like a piece of paper folded in half and stuck together, then ripped back apart halfway and folded so that it took the form of a deformed bird with very crumpled wings. The part where the pieces of paper had been stuck together looked extremely lumpy, as though it had gone through an over-usage of glue.
That's when it struck me. All my glue sticks, all ten of my glue, all used to 'create' this failure of a project. Wow. Just wow.
"So, how do ya like it sis?" Prism asked, leaning on my desk with that devious grin still glued(no pun intended) to his face.
That was it. I could not control my rage anymore. I let my anger get the better of me, overtaking my mind. In one swift motion, I crumbled up the piece of junk that killed all my glue sticks - not that it wasn't crumbled enough - and threw it back at Prism, striking him hard on the forehead.
"How do I like it? How do I like it?! Well, I DON'T!" I yelled, stomping over to my saddlebags and my comic poster, just in case he tried to get his treacherous little hooves on them, too. "Do you know how much all those glue sticks cost?TWENTY BITS! And you wasted them all that on that ONE LITTLE PIECE OF JUNK! Did you even think of MY projects, and how I also need them? Well, I THINK NOT!"
Prism suddenly leapt up onto my desk and growled, trying and failing to look intimidating. "WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT MY PROJECT? HUH? I BET YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE HALF THE GUTS TO FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH WORK I PUT IN TO MAKE MY PROJECT TWENTY PERCENT AWESOMER THAN ALL YOUR PROJECTS COMBINED! TELL YA WHAT, AWESOMENESS TAKES SACRIFICE!"
If I had the ability to facehoof a hundred times in a row without bruising myself, I would so have done it right now. "Prism, if I were to sacrifice my glue sticks, I probably WOULDN'T sacrifice them for your so-called 'project'. And as for you saying I don't even have half the guts to figure out how much work you put in to make your project twenty percent awesomer than all my projects combined, well I'll tell ya what, I HAVE ONE AND A HALF AS MANY GUTS AS YOU DO CONSIDERING MY SIZE AND YOUR PROJECT DOESN'T EVEN WEIGH UP TO A HUNDREDTH OF MINE IN AWESOMENESS! Plus, smart one, did you know that 'awesomer' isn't even a word?"
"OH YEAH? IS THAT A CHALLENGE?" He leaned forward dangerously and toppled off my desk. Not surprising, he face-planted on the floor, then immediately jumped up and declared himself made of 'tough stallion material'.
I let out the longest and loudest groan I had ever heard from my own mouth. And trust me, my average groans are already pretty long and loud compared to most groans. "Even if I WERE to challenge somepony, I most likely wouldn't challenge YOU. I have BETTER things to do than stand here and yell random insults back and forth with you. And since I still have homework to do, WOULD YOU KINDLY GET OUT OF MY ROOM AND LET ME WORK IN PEACE!?"
"Well, YOU destroyed MY project so YOU'RE GONNA HAVE TO PAY FOR IT!"
"Sure, no problem," I answered casually. Then, I picked up the piece of paper and glue, somehow crumbled it up even more, and tossed it back to him. "There, does it look better now?"
His reply didn't quite answer my question either way. "PAPER FIGHT!" Prism picked up the paper-and-glue ball and shot it at me hard. I quickly wove to the side as it grazed my ear.
"Look, Prism, I really don't have time for this! I don't know about you, but I have homework to do! So QUIT. MESSING. AROUND!"
"NO!"
"Whad'ya mean by 'no'?"
"NO, I WILL NEVER, EVER QUIT MESSING AROUND! IT'S MY DUTY!"
"Well that's stupid. Fine, you can mess around all you want, just keep it OUT of my room."
"Why SHOULD I?"
"...Why SHOULDN'T you?"
"You didn't answer my question first!"
"Didn't you here me the first three times!?"
"Nope!"
"[INSERT LIGHT SWEAR PHRASE]"
That was when new voice entered. "WHOA, whoa, what is going on here? Prism, why are you holding a trash can above your head? And Spectrum, what did I tell you about language?"
Language would be the least of my problems right now. I faced my mother, who was standing in the doorway with a very disappointed expression, and tried to block Prism from view. Unfortunately, you can guess how well that works out.
"Er, well, I can explain, mom," I tried to convince her truthfully. "It's kind of a long story, but I could explain clear and -
"SHE DESTROYED MY PROJECT!" Prism yelled, grabbing the crumpled ball of paper and glue, and holding it up for all to see. "AND SHE YELLED AND ME AND INSULTED ME AND -
Mom easily shoved his head down, not roughly, but just hard enough to make him shut up. "Gee, Prism Blitz, you really need to simmer down. And I'm serious. You really have to stop yelling or I will make you play the quiet game."
Prism's eyes widened and he made a move as though to whimper in fear. Oh, right. Did I already mention that the 'quiet game' was Pism's biggest fear? I guess I didn't but now you know.
"Now, Spectrum, your side of the story first," she turned to me, ready to hear what I had to say.
Don't worry, mom, I won't disappoint you! I cleared my throat and stood up straighter to make myself presentable. "So I came back from a really long and weary day at school, only to find Prism Blitz at my desk, working on something. I asked him what he was doing, and I found out that he had used all ten of my glue sticks for a. . . project. So I asked to see the project, and this is what I found."
I picked up the ball of paper and glue, which Prism had dropped, ignoring his protests and threats.
"Yeah. . . it's a little crumbled compared to the original, but it's not that far off. So, I got really angry and we kinda had a yelling match, and I tried to tell him to get out of my room so that I could continue doing my homework in peace. And then, he tried to start a paper fight with this. . . crumbled ball of paper and glue. So I told him to stop messing around, and he refused, then we kinda had another argument, and that's where you came in."
Awkward silence ensued as Rainbow Dash blinked and tried to process what I had just said. Now I wish Flare was here, then I could leave the explaining to her. But she wasn't here and I had to admit that maybe I said it all a little too quickly. Oh well. At least my explanations were always better than Prism's. . . right?
"Okay, MY turn!" Without even waiting for mom's permission, Prism jumped onto my desk and held up one of my hairbrushes as a microphone. Now I regretted forgetting to put it back in my hiding place after I had used it this morning.
"This is the story of the great Blitz, and how he struggled to battle the bad guy, also called the Skies of Spectrum! So first, the great Blitz breaks into the dungeon of the Skies of Spectrum to collect the ten sticks of justice! But right when he was about to fulfill his journey, the Skies of Spectrum appears in the doorway and demands that he pass over the sacred treasure! But it was too late! The great Blitz has already hidden it in the mysterious trash can of secrecy, where the Skies will never find it! Then, the Skies unleashes its rage upon the great Blitz, who, using the power of the mighty paper-glue-ball, counters its attacks without fear! The Skies tries to destroy the mighty paper-glue-ball, but fails, because nothing can ever destroy the mighty paper-glue-ball! And so, having no other choice, the Skies tries to kick the great Blitz out of the dungeon, but the great Blitz resists! And stays! And wins!"
...
...
...
You know, the awkward silence was real this time.
Mom was the first to recover. Apparently, she had gone through a lot more weirdness than I have, so it was only natural that she found Prism's 'story' weird, while I found it outrageously false and stupid.
"Whoa, Prism, I never took you for a storyteller," she said amusingly, staring up at him. "You sure you haven't been reading the Daring Do series?"
Prism shook his head vigorously. "Nope! I so don't read! Reading is for eggheads like sis!"
"HEY!" I yelled on instinct. "What do you know about reading, doofus?!"
He crossed his forelegs and tried to look cool. "It's undeniably, unquestionably, uncool." Mom flinched as he said that, having been reminded of something in the past. I remember hearing that she once said that exact same line before she discovered the love of reading.
I facehoofed for the zillionth that day before turning back to mom, who had watched our little exchange with amusement. "So who's side of the story are you going to believe? His little made-up story or my reasonable explanation?"
"You want my honest opinion? Cause both are a little hard to believe," she chuckled. "Prism, your story was exciting, but it didn't need to contain that many exclamation marks. Spectrum, you need to work on your storytelling skills, but at least yours sounds more realistic."
"See, Prism? My explanation is way easier to believe than yours," I announced triumphantly. "So I guess I win?"
A mischievous grin crossed my mom's face. "Eh, don't worry, I have a little reward for both of you."
"OH, OH, EVEN ME???"
"Yes, even you, Prism," she answered astutely. "In fact, your reward will be to use your own weekly allowances to buy your sister ten glue sticks for the ten you used up."
I grabbed a pillow off my bed and slammed it into my face to muffle my laughter. Now that was the best reward Prism had ever gotten! Yes, yes, he definitely deserved it. Plus, I wouldn't need to use my own allowances to buy my own glue sticks!
"And you, Spectrum, will be in charge of helping your brother recreate the project you destroyed," she added, totally killing my mood.
"Wha - NOOOOOOOOO! . . . I mean, yes ma'am! Er, mom!"
My mother laughed at my embarrassing slip-up. "You know, I always wished you would get along with each other someday, but seriously, you guys make the most hilarious pair when you argue."
"YEAH, SIS! We should TOTALLY start a comedy show!" Prism joined in, trying to fly upside, but ending up crashing into a wall. Yeah, he really needs to work on that.
I flattened my brow. "No."
My mother chuckled again, then sighed. "Okay, guys, fun's over. Prism, go back to your room and start on your homework. Spectrum, do your homework first, then go over to help your brother after you're done. Got it?"
"I BET I'LL FINISH FIRST!" Prism yelled in my face and zoomed away after crashing into my door on the way out. Jeez, talk about rude.
I stomped back over to my comic, grumbling. Laying it out on the floor, I took out my supplies and arranged it around my work space, so that I could reach all of them conveniently. I picked up a marker lowered it to outline a figure that I had drawn in pencil. . .
"So Speck, how was your first day of school?"
"Gah!" I fumbled with my marker, just catching it a few inches above the paper. I glanced up at mom, who was smirking down at me. "Can't it wait until dinner? I don't want to have to repeat the whole thing to dad, when he comes home from work."
"Then it must be long story, right?" she asked. I nodded. "Well, it better be interesting."
"Oh, just you wait," I grumbled. I could totally wait to see the expressions on their faces when I tell them how I fell asleep in class. I'm never going to here the end of it, for sure.
"Then I'll be looking forward to it," she said as she left the room. Then she popped in again. "And in the meantime, you could work on your storytelling skills," she added, before leaving for good.
I sighed. Yes, I was so gonna make them laugh. And laugh. And laugh. If there was one thing I learned today, it was to work on my storytelling skills until I was better then Prism Blitz. I will be better than him, and I was going to prove that tonight.
But first, I need to get this failure of a comic poster done.
