> Need for Speed:Horsepower > by bluekeldeo > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1: Prologue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Commotion was building in a alternative universe of Rockport. (like I said alternative universe, I hate it when people don’t get the point) More specifically in south-west Downtown Rockport, In a cross section, a airport was supposed to be built but was instead abandoned ever since. Now all that was left is only a roadway, perfect for drag races. As racers from all across town started to head to the location one racer completely oblivious to the event. *Ring Ring* “Who could that be?” said Mr.Oblivious, checking who it was, “oh, my brother.” he said answering “Sup.” “Hey, I got some action for you. Head for the Downtown Rockport airport, people are about to drag race. Better head there before the cops come.” “Aw come on man, how am I supposed to get there in less than probably 2 to 3 minutes. I’m in the safe house of Rosewood.” “I don’t know? Just hurry up.” the caller said, before hanging up. Letting out a sigh, he decided to try to get there since being a fully upgraded Subaru along with every custom part made it quite the beast. The only thing he never changed is the appearance, the hood, spoiler, and body kit are all stock. The only thing he changed are the rims to a BBS GT with a metallic gold to it, and the paint to a metallic blue. When it comes to the interior the dashboards are more neon and he got rid of the back seats for less weight. However, instead of a back seat there were now 20lb containers of nitrous oxide as well as a  20lb bottle of Nitrous Express and few pipes connected to it. He loved it that way and made him quite a surprise when people think they are racing a stock car. Getting in the driver he opened the door of the safe house and started his engines. Hearing the orgasmic sound of his engine, he revved it up and took off to the abandoned airport. Picking the quickest route to the area he made it to the highway and was soon picking up speed.After some time he made it to the area, the road was blocked off but, that was natural since nobody is supposed to be there in the first place. As he made it to the entrance a racer blocked him from getting in most likely a guard. “Wooh, there.” he said, blocking him. He then walked up to him looking at both him and his ride. “Ha, you really think you can win races with a stock car like that!? Hahaha!” he said, nearly mocking him. “Oh boy, here we go again.” the racer thought. Stuff like like this happens often, but this early? Never. “Oh really? How about a drag race in there to settle it.” he responded. “Pfff, I’m not going to waste my time on you, but if it means free money. Then maybe I might go for it. How much you got?” he asks. “How about 5 gram.” he responded. “5 gram’s a good amount. Alright I’ll do it.” After they’re little conversation the guard let him in. Soon the guard got his car,  of which looked very similar to a car he seen before. Soon the two got to a free lane, a crowd started to form most of which were rooting for the Volkswagen, probably because it is more attractable to the eye when it comes to looks. After placing our bets, it was time to start the race. At the start of a race it’s tradition to revv up the engine before it starts to show the opponent what they are facing. The Volkswagen revved up his engine causing a hear able whir in the engine. As the main protagonist revved up his engine it cause a loud whir while leaving a bit of Anti-lag in the process surprising both the opponent and the crowd. Soon a smug look was plastered on the antagonist. 3...2...1...Go! The rest of this chapter will be in first person Pressing the gas and the shot of nitrous to increase the acceleration, now approaching 4th gear. As I looked back I see he was way far behind. The chances be it that I don’t have to press the button on the steering wheel for the 20lb bottle boost, good thing too because I really don’t want to waste a bottle. Looking at the tachometer I see the meter is at the rgm range to shift gears pressing the clutch and lifting the leg off the gas I shift the car to 5th gear. “Oh no, I will NOT lose to a stock car!” the opponent said pressing the nitrous oxide button on his steering wheel. Soon the exhaust was leaving behind flames of the nitrous giving him a big boost of speed. Looking back I see he was catching up and fast. Probably used a bottle of nitrous, but the question is. Does he have a 5, 10, or 20lb bottle and, did he tune how much of the nitrous to be used a second. I really don’t want to risk wasting a bottle, but I really don’t want to lose. Ah screw it, I’ll take the risk, shifting into 6th gear. Looking back the car is getting farther away, did he reach his top speed? As I thought that the finish line was in view as I cross it. Letting go of the gas as I shift back down to 3rd gear while activating the e-brake for a second to loosen the traction as I made a 180 turn. Back at the start I got my prize of 5 gram(not counting the money I placed in). Setting my car in a free spot I looked to see if my brother was around, since he did tell me about this event he should be here. Unfortunately I don’t see him, just then another person approached me. “Yo, I heard you were the one that beat the Golf gt.” said the stranger “Yup, he underestimated me.” I said “well, how about a race of companies.” “What?” “Let me explain, you got a subie. I got a Mitsubishi lancer evolution the two companies are constantly competing with one another. So why not have a race between the two cars.” “Hmm, seems like a plan. Alright I’ll bite, how much you wanna bet?” “How about that that 10 gram you just got.” “Alright, let’s do this.” Getting into the car I set myself to the start. Looking at his ride I see that it again looks really similar to another car I’d seen. Not thinking about it I waited for the girl to signal us to go. Doing the usual tradition we both revved up the engine to compare. While his is more louder than the the Golf it still wasn’t as loud as mine. 3...2...1...GO Doing the same tactic I was pulling ahead of the lancer but wasn’t at a big lead like before. The chances are, I will have to use a bottle. Shifting into 5th gear I debate on whether I should press it now or wait until 6th gear, I didn’t have to decide as the lancer pulled ahead with flames coming out of his exhausts. Pressing the button the nitrous gauge fills up as I felt a big rush of speed pushing me back into my seat. Shifting into 6th gear I was starting to pass him but not for long, as another wave of speed hit the lancer pulling him ahead; he used another bottle. “Is he crazy?! Using two bottles one after another? He could *POP* pop...his exhausts.” I said  seeing him slowing down due to the slight explosion. Crossing the finish I didn’t just go straight to the start. I decided to help him out, stopping near him I see he just got rid of the fire. “You alright?” “Yea I’m fine, can’t say the same for the back.” “Let me take a look” I say looking underneath the back bumper. “Hmm, well the good news are the parts are alright just blew the exhausts that's all. The thing is...you need those things replaced.” “Great…” “I’ll tell you what” going for the backseat of my car “I’ll give my spare exhaust, granted it might be as pretty as your old ones but this will act as a substitute.” “Wow, thanks man.” After installing the new part we both made it back to the start. Collecting my prize money I found my brother with his Mazda with a bright metallic red paint with a Mazda-speed body kit. I wasn’t able to talk to him as I heard a sound I didn’t want to hear. “COPS! COPS!” someone shouted Everyone then scrambled to their car to get the hell out of doge. Running to my car I then went to the exit with other people as we all went in different directions. I went south in the direction of the spiral highway in the route of my safe house. *Beep Beep*  Channel 3 be advised we have a complaint of speeding vehicles one of which is heading south on the highway of downtown Rockport can we have party to go check that out Do you have any detail of that vehicle “Please don’t have any detail, please don’t have any.” I pleaded Subject is driving a blue Subaru “Shit.” OK now it’s a race to the safe house without the cops noticing me. As I went around the corner a cop was there. “Oh fuck.” I said trying to drive normally, then the cop turned on his siren as he drove to me “oh come on.” I said speeding away Yea I’m on that reported party...He’s running, we got a chase Turning into the city I looked in the map to see if I can find any pursuit breakers. I found one but it’s near the police department. Ah screw it. He’s heading into the police department Hitting the base of the radio tower the tower fell down blocking the police in it’s track as I made my escape to the safe house entering cooldown mode I lost my sight on him can we have a coordinate set up Copy Robert 204, subject was last seen headed east past the police department can we a have a roadblock set up there this call is still code 3 Soon I made it to the safe house, opening the door I entered inside ending the pursuit. Relieved to see that no marks were made which was surprising. “Brother? Brother are you around?” I called, checking the other parts, I see that my brother is nowhere to be found. “I swear if he got caught by the police. I really don’t want to bail him out, especially that I just evaded the cops.” *Ring Ring* Checking the phone, seeing that it was my brother I pick up. “Yo.” “hey, You evaded the cops?” “Yup…well not necessarily avoided the cops entirely...I got in a chase.” “Heh, well I didn’t. I’m in the safe house of Rosewood if you want to know. Know I gotta go, need a fresh coat of paint, seeya little bro.” “Bye.” *Beep* “Hmm, maybe I should get some vinyls on my car. I mean I love my car plainly stock but, maybe it’s time to get something new.” I thought, after replacing the nitrous bottle I decided it was time for a new makeover. Opening the door I noticed something strange about the door, actually really strange. The street and roads aren’t there instead all that is there is a purple swirling something.Driving a little into it so the front bumper hits the weird wall I see that it goes right through it. Then setting my car to reverse I try to get it out, but all that can heard is the screeching of the tires. “Fuck, I guess it’s a one way ticket.” getting out of the car I decided I might need something to bring with me.Grabbing my first aid kit and my 9mm pistol for in case I need it. Grabbing a portal fridge filled a couple of things mostly cans of soda, and instant chicken noodle soup,securing it in the backseat I get back inside. “Alright, it’s go time.” pressing the gas my car is fully enveloped by the weird aura as I get transported to a location on a hill. “Where am I?” I said, looking at my situation, I’m on the top of a hill with at the end a little slope to make a jump of which looks like a 20 degree angle, straight ahead is a small town. “So my only direction is down with a small jump at the end...great.” Once in neutral gear I revved up the engine for a second then proceeding to first gear. Because of the angle the hill, the car is accelerating a lot more faster than usual. Soon I was going to 4th gear in seconds, not wanting to use a bottle immediately after leaving the safe house I decided not to use one. Shifting up, now on to 187 mph and climbing. The jump getting closer and closer by the millisecond, as I approached it. The car then lifted to the air, the freedom, the adrenaline, everything that I loved being a racer. “WOOOO,CATCH THAT AIR!” I shouted just before landing the car on a flat dirt road. Due to the jump the car lost some speed, approaching the town I skidded to a complete stop in the most over dramatic way. That alone probably scared off the inhabitants since I don’t see anyone there. Grabbing the 9mm pistol, I stepped out of the vehicle to see where I am. The area doesn’t look anything I have seen, what kind of rural area has hay roofs and is constructed with wood? Looking around I don’t see anyone, nor do I see a mechanic shop around here. Just then something punch me in the cheek, and really quickly. A little distorted I look up and see some figure floating above, as it came down a high speed probably to land another hit. Quickly dodging it, I took aim for one of the wings as I shot a bullet. The figure then fell straight to the ground. Walking up to it with the pistol ready to shoot I see what the figure was. The figure seemed to be a cyan blue pegasus with a rainbow mane. I felt kind of embarrassed, the fact this thing would’ve beat my ass up if I didn’t shoot was a little sad. Then again I really am not much of a fighter. “Argh, That really hurts” the pegasus says “Hold up, You can talk?” Disbelieved that the equine can talk I needed to set something straight. “Why’d you attack me?” “You would’ve been attacking ponyville with that weird machine of yours.” “I could see why. Um can I look at your wing to see the damage.” “WHY?” the pony said with a hostile attitude “Chill out, I just want to help you. The bullet could either be one, stuck in your wing or two, created two holes in your wing. Hold on let me get my first aid.” I then hurried to my car, grabbing the first aid I rushed back to see the damage I created. “OK phew, I thought it was worse.” “What do you mean worse?” “I meant I thought I would have to pull the bullet out but all it did was create one one hole but the bullet fell out somehow.” Grabbing some pads I placed them on her wing to stop the bleeding. Proceeding to wrap it around with a bandage. I tell her to go to the hospital to get it checked out. “Thanks and um...sorry that I was a little hostile, I just didn’t want you hurting my friends.” “Eh, it’s fine. Understandable.” “RAINBOW WHO IS THIS CREATURE!” shouted a purple pony with a darker shade of violet for the mane. > Chapter 2:Introduction > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After a little bit of a discussion between the violet (purple, I don’t know, your choice) pony, it seems that I’m in a place called Ponyville. “So we aren’t anyplace on Earth what you're saying.” “Doesn't sound like anyplace I’ve heard of.” “Great.” I said in the most exaggerated tone. “Now what am I supposed to do?” “Well you could come with me. I still have tons of questions.” “Alright but first, I need to park my car someplace safe.” “Your what?” she asks, raising a eyebrow. “My...car.” I said, questioning if the inhabitants here has heard or even seen one before. Walking towards my vehicle, I get inside and drove it towards her. “Do you know a place safe to park this thing?” “hmm, I think I know a place to put that.” she says, motioning her hoove to follow her. After a few seconds of roaming and tons of stares, most likely of awe or maybe even confusion seeing a weird contraption. We made it to some type of castle that appears to be made of crystals. “You can leave that here.” she says, pointing the area to leave the vehicle. “Right here? Out in the open?” I ask a bit concerned for the safety of my car in a place I don't even know. “I don't know, what if someone steals it or scratches it? I don't feel confident leaving this baby here.” “hmm.” the pony says before an idea hits her. Her horn then lights up as my car is covered by what looks like some type of force field. “There that should protect it. Now come.” Turning the car off, then proceeding to get out I see the car is surrounded by a purple aura. Locking the car I then followed the pony in the castle of some type. I take mental notes of the place, the area really is made of crystals and not a single speck isn't polished to the point that it sparkles however, there were some parts that appeared to be bitten off. We then entered a large room with a throne ahead. “I need you to wait here for a few minutes I have to get the rest of my friends.” she says before running off. Feeling that she might take a while I decided to go to the nearest pillar take a short nap. As my eyes opened my vision was really bad, all I can see is really blurry figures. Two figures, short and next to two vehicles, they seem like they're ponies. The two vehicles I can't make out what they are. “Thank you for donating a ride, I really appreciate it.” the figure says before laughing along with the other one, as both the vehicles were taken away. “WHAT THE!” I shouted, having a weird disturbing dream. The shouting disturbed the six ponies waiting in the same room. “You alright?” said the purple pony with a concerned look on her face. “huh, uh yeah I’m fine. Just a little shaken up thats all.” I said stretching my arms. “So these are your friends?” “Yes.” she replied, giving them a nod to introduce themselves. The whole introduction went just as well as any introduction really. So it turns out there names are Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Twilight Sparkle, and Rainbow Dash (the one who got shot). Each pony has there own personality, Rarity, a pony with a white coat with a curled mane and tail is a fashionista who speaks in a rather formal tone. Applejack, a pony with a orange coat with a lighter shade of,blonde for the mane with a red ribbon on her tail. She speaks in southern accent of which I really like. Pinkie Pie is with a pink coat with a even pinker poofier mane is...for the lack of better words, a crazy party pony. The second she met me she was all in my face talking so fast to the point where I couldn't understand her. The only thing I can make out is something about throwing a “welcome to Ponyville” party. Fluttershy a pony with a yellow coat with a straight pink mane that she mostly uses to hide herself is well as the name suggests, shy. While she is a really polite pony, she just has trouble speaking to new people. The rest of her friends had to speak for her. Twilight Sparkle is supposedly a princess, or in otherwords the leader of the area. However, she doesn't act like how a leader would stereotypically act. You would think that the head of the area would just lock me in a dungeon straight away but, she didn't do that. Instead she just took me to the castle to get to know me a bit better and meet the rest of her friends. Rainbow Dash, is a pony with a lot of pride in herself. She claims to be the “most awesome and fastest pony in all of Equestria” but, I'm a little skeptical about that. “So what's your name?” said Twilight. “Well, my name is Arthur, and I'm a Need For Speed Racer.” “A Need For Speed Racer? What's that?” “Well it's the term that we street racers use. We set up illegal drag, sprint, even circuit races. Most of the time the cops show up to arrest us, that's when we all scramble to get away. Some get caught but some escape.” “Hold up.” Rainbow Dash interjected “So you mean that thing you have can go fast?” “yup.” “how? That thing doesn't look like it can go fast at all.” “oh believe me that car can move. If you want we can race, you did say you're the fastest pony in Equestria, no?” “yea, I am.” she says with pride “well you got a lot to live up to that name. Umm, Twilight?” “yea?” “Do you know a place perfect to drag race? Like a runway about at least six to eight miles long.” “hmm, there is the Canterlot Stadium, that place is mostly used for races.” “Perfect. How far away is it?” “it's pretty far we have to go by train.” “darn but then again, we do have to wait for your wing to heal Rainbow. Again sorry for what happened earlier.” “it's fine, Nurse Redheart said my wing should heal completely by tomorrow anyway.” “Tomorrow? That fast?” is the medical field in this place that well? A bullet wound would take about days if not weeks in order to heal. “OHMYGOSH,” cried Pinkie Pie “I’ve been caught so up that I didn't set up your “Welcome to Ponyville” party!” she said before zooming off. “Is she always like that?” I ask, they all nod. Damn, she has a lot of pent up energy. “knowing Pinkie she should be done with your party in few seconds. So let's head there right now.” says Twilight, before we head out. As we exited the building, we saw many ponies examining my car, two of which caught my attention. One has a brown coat and black smooth mane who wears some type of suit and tie, the pony looks like a stallion. The other one a mare, is a lighter shade of brown with a short run down mane she wears a silver necklace with a dark blue dress, her face looks like she had a failed plastic surgery. Both look like rich ponies. “ah Twilight, we've been waiting for you. We've never seen this amazing type of machine and wanted to know if you're interested in selling it.” said the stallion, his tone sounds like a stereotypical rich person or pony in this case. “Oh, hell, naw. They ain't thinking about buying ma’ car.”  I thought with an accent. “woah woah woah hold up!” I said, running up to the car holding my hand out in a back the fuck away kind of manor “You're not going to buy ma’ car, that shit’s mine.” “Move vile creature we have business to attend to.” said the mare, her attitude just screams bitch. “You're not going to make any business, not with me around.” “Twilight, can you tell this creature to move.” said the stallion “I’m sorry Filthy Rich but, that machine is his.” said Twilight, Filthy Rich, so that's his name. “You?! This creature owns that?!” said the mare, practically in disbelief. “Yup, and like I said, you're not going to buy my car.” “What a waste of a product. That machine deserves to be with a pony that can properly utilize it.” said Filthy Rich “You really think you can use my car?! You can't even reach the pedal the chances be it. Get out!” I yelled “Just you wait, that machine will be ours.” said Filthy Rich, before leaving After that little event I followed the group to were Pinkie is hosting the party. Upon arriving there I was greeted with a big wave of confetti and surprises from the ponies in the building. The party itself was alright just the constant bombardment of questions were the only things that kept me from enjoying it. After things started to settle down one question hit me. Where am I going to sleep? I mean I could just sleep in the car but, I don't want my ass to go numb in the morning. “Umm, Twilight?” “Yea?” “Where do you think I can sleep?” “Well...you could sleep in my place.” “Really? I don't know, I'm not sure if I'm worthy to sleep at your place. I mean that's a luxurious place you want me sleep in.” “No really, it's fine.” “Wow, thanks Twilight.” After the party it was time to go. Following Twilight to her place, we said goodbye to others and entered the castle. As we entered the hallway a small figure poped out of one of the doors. “Twilight, I was looking for…” the figure said before stopping when he saw me. “ah, woops I forgot to mention Spike. Umm, Arthur this is Spike my personal assistant. Spike this is Arthur he’ll be staying with us for a while.” “Oh Umm, pleased to meet you Arthur.” Spike said extending his claw for a handshake “Nice to meet you too Spike.” I said returning the handshake. “So what exactly are you? ” “I'm a dragon.” he replied. “A dragon huh? And from the looks of it, your a young one. Well see ya.” I said before heading to the room that I’ll be staying in “Spike.” “Yea Twilight?” “Prepare a letter to send to Princess Celestia.” “Right away Twilight.” the dragon said before going to a stack of letters and grabbing a quill “He’s certainly somepony I’ve never met.” Twilight thought > Chapter 3: Race-time > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- After getting a good night's sleep, it was time. Time to go to the stadium to race the so-called, fastest pony in Equestria. Getting out bed and doing my business, I went to a room. There Twilight was with the rest of her friends along with three new ponies, giving them a wave, I walked over to the round table and noticed that the seats are just pillows. Taking a free seat I give em a face that indicates, so...what I miss. “Who are these new ponies?” “Arthur, I want you to meet Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo” Twilight said “Nice to meet you all, Actually I have a question, aren’t you kids supposed to be a school?” “It’s a weekend Arthur.” said Twilight “Ah, whoops, my bad. Actually, second question why are you three here?” “We heard about the race, and We really want to see Rainbow Dash win this Race.” Said Scootaloo the orange pegasus. She then grabbed a little tiny flag with Rainbow Dash’s mark on it. “Heh, nice seems like you got a fan club Rainbow.” I said, she blushes for a second. They then showed me a list of food of which none really sound edible. All of the food has some type of flowers that human stomach might not handle. However, one type of breakfast looks tasty. Almost on cue, the waiter arrives on the scene. All the ponies ordered their food as I ordered mine. “You ready to race Rainbow?” I ask “Hay yea I am” she responds filled with energy “I still can't believe that umm, what do you call it? “Car” can go fast.” “we’ll just see on the stadium.” After having our breakfast, of which if you really want to know what I ordered. It was a cream cheese with bread, they didn't have bagels for some reason. As we exited the building I looked over at my car and saw that although the crowd wasn't as big as before, there was still a little bit of a group most of which looked like reporters. Asking Twilight to remove the force field, I politely ask the ponies to move. Unlocking it then proceeding to enter. I started the engine, the engine then starts causing the usual satisfying sound, surprising the ponies hearing the engine bursting to life. Rolling down the window I wonder if Rainbow would want to raise the stakes in a way. “Hey Rainbow, think you want to raise the stakes.” “How?” “Well how about inviting the reporters here to the race to see who wins.” “Alright the more ponies to watch my awesomeness.” she replied, almost a little too eager. After telling the reporters to follow us since they will have a big scoop after this whole event ends. However, I didn't notice two ponies incognito in the group, the two rich assholes. I drove it at a walking pace to the train station. Waiting for the train, I checked the status of the car with a tablet monitor, everything seemed normal. The train then arrived, after explaining the conductor about this situation we had to wait for a few minutes for a flatbed to be brought here. Securing the car to the flatbed, we headed out to the area called Canterlot. The six ponies said that the place is mostly filled with rich ponies which angered me, I hate people or ponies in this case that just think they're so powerful all because they have money. “Arthur?” said Twilight “Yea, Twilight?” “How do you feel about all this? You know, the race.” “The same thing I feel for most of the races I’ve done, excited.” Now arriving at Canterlot “Well, that's our stop. Also, can you tell Rarity to come over here?” Twilight then went on to Rarity and told her to come. “Yes, darling?” “Umm Rarity, this might be a weird question, but I heard you're a fashionista no?” she nods “Well I have no clothing, and I'm wearing the same thing as yesterday. So can you maybe possibly make me some new clothing?” I ask with a little nervous smile “Of course darling, besides it gives me a new challenge. I just need to take your measurements back at my boutique. Then give me a day and I'll deliver your clothes personally so I can hear your thoughts on it.” “Wow, thanks, Rarity.” “Are there any preferences you want?” she asks, almost levitating a quill and notepad out of nowhere “Not really, I don't really have anything that I look for in clothing other than comfort.” “Nothing on looks?” “No, the reason is that I have bad taste when it comes to fashion.” “Ahh, leave the whole looks to me, darling. I promise you'll look fabulous.”, “Well you know fashion more than I do, so I trust you.” The train then stopped at the station, after detaching the car off the flatbed and reactivating the car, we set off to the Canterlot stadium. As we traveled through the city I noticed that the ponies were staring this way, figures. As we got to the stadium, which was a huge place, I told Twilight to set up a finish with some sort of sensor so we can tell for sure who finished first. Once everything is set up, it was time to start the race. Not wanting to show off the true potential of the car I decided to skip all of the showoffs for now. However, something was missing...right, music. I checked the glove compart and there I found my collection of CDs. Picking out one, I inserted it in the CD player, 3..2..1..GO! Using a quick shot of Nitrous Express at the start I see that Rainbow is ahead but only in a few inches. Shifting to 4th I started to catch up, When she looked to her side, she then speeded ahead. “Heh, I guess that’s her version of nitrous.” I thought Shifting up, I then started to catch up to her again. Surprised to see me keeping with her she then made one final push, only this time she didn’t go ahead too much. Making one final shift I then pressed the button to the Nitrous as the exhaust left behind flames. Feeling a big rush of speed the car then pulled ahead of Rainbow. Rainbow Dash however, feeling exhausted couldn’t do anything as she just watched the vehicle pull ahead of her as they crossed the finish line. Pulling the E-brake the car then stopped to a complete halt, it didn’t take long for Rainbow to come by after crossing the finish line.The rest of the ponies then ran up to us all in disbelief. “How...how did you beat me.” said Rainbow panting heavily “I’m not sure, but you were actually really fast, I’m surprised,” I said extending my arm. “Great race.” she then took the handshake, which the reporters took it as the cue to start taking photos. “Arthur, I’m afraid we can’t celebrate now,” Twilight said “Why?” “Princess Celestia wants us to meet her in her palace.” “Oh, well I guess we better get going then. Um, Rainbow?” “Yea?” she responds still tired “Since you’re tired out, how about I give you a lift in my ride.” “Sweet.” she says Opening the passenger side of the door she hops inside and sits down on the seat. Closing the door, I walked to the driver side and went back in. Opening the windows I drove it besides the 6 ponies.The reporters headed back to ponyville to probably write this event, Celestia’s castle wasn’t too far it was near the stadium anyway. Upon arriving, Rainbow broke the silence in the car. “I really like how this car looks.” “Really? I mean it’s OK I guess.” “And these seats are really comfortable.” “Yea that’s the custom racing seat of the STI.” As I was parking the car Rainbow observed me working the car, “So, how does your car work?” “Well it’s not as easy as it looks, it took many months to get the hand of manual drive and then there is maintaining it. I could go on to explaining it, but we don’t have time for it.” I said, parking the car Once we both got out of the car and Twilight doing her spell we headed inside to Celestia’s castle. Her castle wasn’t too different than Twilight's just different layout and materials. When we reached the huge doors containing Celestia the two guards stopped us from entering in only for a moment. After Twilight explained to the guards what was happening they let us in. Once inside I saw that the throne room was huge, even huger than Twilight’s throne room. There I saw probably-Princess Celestia-in the throne chair waiting. Once up to her the others bowed down in respect. “Arthur, bow,” Twilight whispered sternly, hearing this I quickly got on one knee and put my head down “There is no need for that.” Celestia said, “I heard about our new guest, pleased to meet to meet you, Arthur.” “How do you know my name?” “Twilight told me about you in a letter.” “Oh, uh, pleased to meet you too Celestia.” “Now the reason I called you all here is that there is a report of another human in Appleloosa. And he appears to have a machine just like yours Arthur, only it’s different.” “Different, eh? Can you maybe describe it?” “Well the reports say it’s red with something the human says a MazdaSpeed body kit.” “Mazdaspeed body kit?! Then it must be a Mazda RX-8 then. Do you know his name?” “Well, the reports didn’t say what his real name is just that his nickname is Mikekirby.” “Mikekirby?!” I yelled out loud surprising everyone. “No way, are you sure that’s his nickname?!” “That's what the report says. Why are you so surprised?” “Mikekirby...is the nickname of...my brother. Twilight how far away is Appleloosa.” “Appleloosa is quite far away we have to take the train,” Twilight responded “Then let's go then,” I said running off. “Hold it,” Twilight said stopping me in my tracks. “I’m afraid we’ll have to wait until tomorrow, if we go now we might make it there in the middle of the night.” “Damn it.” I said snapping my finger. “Oh well, I guess we’ll go back to ponyville. Thanks for the heads up Celestia.” I said waving off. Walking out Twilight then ran up to me, “Is Mikekirby really your brother?” “Yup, he too is a Need for Speed racer. I just don’t know how he got here, tis’ a mystery alright.” > Chapter 4: A familiar face > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- As the morning sun started to rise I had two things in my agenda; one was wait my clothes from Rarity and the other is to head for a area called Appleloosa to meet my brother Mikekirby. Doing my usual business I then received a knock on my door. Opening it I was surprised to see Twilight right there. “Oh, Twilight. Need something?” She then hands me a newspaper. “Ponies are talking about you ever since that article came out.” she says entering the room “Equestrian Times: New creature beats Rainbow Dash in a race” I read outloud, closing the door behind her “And, this is a bad thing? I mean I’m not really comfortable about this whole entire “new creature” thing.” I add with air quotes “You know you should enter this competition.” “What competition?” “Oh right, I didn’t tell you about it. There’s going to be a racing competition later in a few days,in the same stadium that you raced in. Unfortunately, you need a team of two.” “Oh, well my brother too is a street racer I’m sure he’ll join in along with me, it’s been awhile since we’ve done a race together.” At the same time a knock was heard from the front door. “Must be Rarity to deliver my clothes.” Opening the door there stood Rarity with her levitating a box. “Ah darling, I’ve brought your fabulous clothing right here.” she said entering the room “Twilight, pleasure to meet you.” “Hey Rarity, did you see the front page in the newspaper?” Twilight said “No, I haven’t dear.” Rarity responded handing me the box of clothes as she takes the newspaper. “I’ll just head to the bathroom so I can change there. See y’all in a bit.” I said entering the bathroom to get changed. Although the whole entire situation of how I got my clothing measured exactly, was a little weird and will never leave my mind. It was a little while after we all came back from Canterlot everyone went to their own separate ways. Parking my car, Twilight doing her usual thing, I went with Rarity so I can finally get some new clothes, at least tomorrow anyway. As we got to her place which was literally as the name implied was a carousel boutique. Entering inside the place had mostly statue models, the next that happened was the weird part. She asked me to take off all my clothes, all of it. Now I really wasn’t keen on getting practically naked in front of anyone even a talking pony, especially a female just to get some measurements however, she wouldn’t take any other way to get measured. Yea, after that event I was extremely embarrassed walking back home, I won’t go too much into detail but, let’s just say...things got interesting weird when I took down my boxers. Putting on the last piece of clothing I stepped out of the bathroom, upon getting out I checked myself out on the mirror. The clothes are really nice however, one thing grabbed my attention was the shirt, the shirt was bright blue like my Subaru. The middle of the shirt had a design that was extremely familiar to some rally car vinyls I’ve seen before. Right next to it was the words Impreza and STI. “Rarity...did you actually make this shirt? Not only is it really comfortable and soft, it also has the Subaru Impreza STI logo on it. “Of course darling. I was inspired when I saw those symbols on your car.” “Yea but, it's extremely accurate to many Subaru rally car shirts I’ve seen. It’s kind-of scary of how accurate you got it. Now let’s not waste much time we need to get to Appleloosa.” They nodded with agreement as we went off. Stepping out of the castle, checking the car, making sure no one is trying to do anything sketchy. Too my surprise, there was still a crowd near my car, along with the two bitches/riches. “Human, we would like offer you a little proposition.” Said Filthy Rich “Oh for the love of God, for the last time I’m not letting you buy this car.” “As we were saying human.” Filthy said, practically not even listening to what I said “We heard that you won in a race with Rainbow Dash.” “Well yea, I mean it’s nothing to brag about, it was just a little friendly competition.” “We heard that a human with a veh-icle just like yours has appeared in Appleloosa.” Filthy said trying to pronounce vehicle “Yea and?” I have a feeling I know where this is going “Well, tell that human to meet us.” “The chances be-it, your going to ask him for his car, knowing him, I know for a fact. He’ll act the same way as I did. Also how the heck do you know that there is a new person in Equestria.” “Word gets around when you're rich.” Spoiled Rich said with pride. God I hate rich people...ponies. “*sigh* I’ll tell him but I’m warning you, he’ll be a bit stubborn on letting you even talk about buying it.” With that they both left, entering the car turning it on I check the status of the car. “Woops, I forgot to change the nitrous oxide.” seeing the bottle icon on my status screen empty and the nitrous express bottle half empty. Stepping out I open the rear doors to change the bottles “What are you doing?”said Twilight “Changing the nitrous bottles.” I responded unattaching the bottle “Changing the what bottles.” She said getting closer to see what I meant “These things.” I said bring in a large blue bottle with the letters N2O in white. “What nitrous oxide does is that it gives you a momentum of boost when activated. The only problem is...these things have to be changed and it can get pretty expensive, especially if you do a lot of racing. If there was a way make these thing recharge that would be cool, and useful.” “Hmm, I might be able with that. Can you let me have that so I can do more research on it.” “Sure, I practically have no use for so, take it.” I said giving her the bottle. Walking to the back trunk and opening it, I see my stash of bottle of both brands in there. The problem is if Twilight doesn’t find a way to make the bottles refill themselves, then I have a problem. Grabbing a fresh new bottle, walking back I reinstalled the new bottle back in place. Seeing how the express bottle is half empty I decided it would be best to use the rest right now. Walking back to the driver’s seat I call out to warn anypony near the exhausts to step back. Revving the car and infusing the nitrous the exhaust then started to spit out flames surprising everypony. “So that what it does?” Twilight said “when you use the...boost, flames shoot out.” “Well not exactly, that’s more of a side effect. How it works is more complicated than it looks.” Using the rest of the nitrous, getting out of the car I change the bottle, giving the practically empty to twilight, it was time to move. Letting the car pull itself to the train station we met up with the rest of the gang. Waiting for the train I started to think about my brother. He was a great hero to me, he introduced me to the Subaru ever since I was a child. I don’t know why but, things took off for me and the Subaru. I don’t know why I like it, was it the color it first comes in? The boxer engine? Or was it just personal tastes. He taught me everything I need to know about handling a stick shift and a bunch of other things. The only problem is, I feel like I never got to show my brother how much I really appreciate him. Sure I did some pretty good things in return for him however, those were just return favors, not like a full on gift or something. I might be getting ahead of myself, nobody here really wants to hear my past. The train then arrived to the station, this time it came with the flatbed already installed. Connecting the car to the flatbed we entered inside a special cart, due to Twilight’s status we got a cart all to ourselves. Entering inside the place was roomy everyone has their own bed and it seemed comfy. I know that it will take about a few hours to make it to Appleloosa so I might as well take a nap until then. Taking a free bed I lie down and close my eyes for a short slumber. I didn’t get to sleep much as a hoof woken me up from my nap. Opening my eyes I see the hoof belongs to a cyan blue pegasus. “Huh, Rainbow? Are we there yet or, you need something?” I ask “I-I wanted to ask you something.” she says, something about her seems unsure, insecure even. “Well, what is it?” “I’m just surprised you aren’t bragging. I mean anypony that beats me in a race would brag about it all day.” “Well, I mean I really don’t like to brag about most wins. I don’t like showing off like a college kid that got a Lamborghini Murciélago for his birthday.” “What’s a Lam-bor-ghi-ni Mur-cié-la-go?” she said “It’s another type a car a really expensive car, most people who buy it just brag about it because they think it makes them look like they are fast when reality they have no idea how to drive it. It reminds of that one time a beat a Murciélago in a drag race, the same way that we did it.” “Heh, really?” “Yea, there were many things wrong with his car. One his car was stock meaning it had no upgrades to make it faster, two he was in a automatic transmission.” “What’s that?” “Well it kind of the way the car can hit top speed, manual; you have more control and it’s fun driving with a stick shift, which is that little knob I was using when you were in the car with me, remember?” “Oh yea.” “Well in automatic the car shifts gear for you which can be slower than if you were actually doing it yourself. One question though, Why did you seem a little insecure? I mean you seemed as if you had something on your mind?” “O-oh that, um...well to tell you the truth you’re...kind of...cool.” she says with a blush “Heh, thanks.” I say scratching behind her ear causing her moan in pleasure. “You’re not so much of a bad per-I mean pony as I thought you would be.” “Do you mind if I sleep with you?” she says surprising me. “Um...I...uh...am not sure, I mean I’ll leave a spot here for you to lie down.” I say scooting over to make room. I didn’t think too much of it as I went back to sleep. Now Arriving at Appleloosa The loudspeaker then woke me up of my slumber. As I opened my eyes I noticed that I’m snugged tightly with Rainbow, and something else that will haunt me. The girls are right there watching us. “Uh, I can explain.” I say, the girls just giggled and left. Great, they’re never gonna let me live that down. I thought, trying my best to not wake her up I try to move around but, she then grabs me somehow with her wings and pulls me in a hug. Guess my best bet is to just wake her up. “Rainbow. Wake up, we're here.” She then starts to wake up and sees me encased in her wings, she lets go of me and starts blushing heavily. “S-sorry about that.” “It’s fine, didn’t know you were much of a cuddler. Anyways we better get moving” I say exiting the train car, there I see the car was now off the flatbed and on the road. Getting inside I start the car car up to heat up, stepping out I examine the area. The place seems like your typical, cowboy wild west. The area seems like a great place for offroading and such. There, I spot something, a guy talking to a pony with a bright red car. Immediately I get inside and start to go over there leaving the rest of the group behind. Once I made it over there I stopped the car and ran over to him. “Brother! Is it really you?!” “Yup the one and only.” I then gave him a brotherly hug, now I know he isn’t keen on hugs but, it’s nice seeing a familiar face again “Also one thing”-I went up to his car- “what did you do to it? It looks...actually really nice.” I said, his car has a vinyl that really blends his rx8’s color. As I look closer I see the side skirt’s color beneath one of the claws is actually the same color as his car. “Yea, it does doesn’t it? Oh that reminds me, Arthur I want you to meet Paint Streak.” He says introducing me to a unicorn with a vibrant blue coat with black mane along with a streak of the same shade of blue in the tail. “Nice to meet you Paint Streak.” I say extending my hand for a shake. “Nice to meet you too Arthur, I see that you also have a car just like your brother, really nice...same color as my coat a nice bright blue...hmm, I might come up with something for you.” she said examining the car. “You really think so? I mean I’m fine with the car being like this but, I would like to change it a bit. Actually Mike Why’d you changed the car to have this vinyl?” “Well to be perfectly honest I had to do it for the respect and reputation. You know how it is in the street racing community, you have to rice out the car with some of the stupidest vinyls and body kits in order to be praised around there.” “Well that’s true. Anyway I have a request for you, it seems that there’s a competition in Canterlot and it needs a team of two, so why don’t we enter it together you know, brother and brother stuff.” “I’m sorry but, I can’t do it.” “What, why?” “Are you not thinking straight?! Both our cars need fuel; gasoline and oil. I especially need oil and gas, this car is a rotary engine, meaning I need a good supply of oil and gas. If my car runs out of oil then that's it, poof done this car is over;retired.” he said, giving me a strict talk “Right, I forgot about that factor.” I said, thinking about a way to solve this problem. “Actually I think I might have a way to solve that factor.” Just then the group came in. “Arthur is this your brother?” Twilight said “Ah, perfect timing. Two things, yes this is my brother and where do you think we can get a good supply of gasoline and oil.” “Gasoline and oil, why?” “Both our cars need oil and gas to move, if we run out we can’t go anywhere, and it’s especially dangerous that my car run out of oil so if you think you can get these substances quickly that would be great.” My brother said “Well, I know there is oil and gasoline in Minotaur Island I’ll have a request sent there. The minotaurs are nice, so I think they’ll accept.” “Perfect, so Mike think you can accept my request?” I said “Well I have enough spare premix oil containers in my trunk to last for a while so, if this request is fulfilled then I’ll accept. Until then I really have get back to Rockport.” “OK, well time to take the train back.” I said “Hold it!” He said “I can’t go with you guys just yet.” “Why?” Twilight said “This car has a rotary engine and it requires that it goes on long roadtrips not short, it’s bad for it. Meaning it requires me to beat the hell out it. So Arthur, let’s race.” “Wait, where are we going to race? This place doesn’t have roads to grip the tires especially for your car which is a rear-wheel drive.” “There is a place similar to the airport in Rockport, it maybe a little dusty but it’s perfect.” “Ok, lead the way then. Um if you girls want we both can take you to the location, three of you will go with me and three of you will go with my brother.” “OK, just don’t get any sand on the seats.” Twilight, Pinkie, and Applejack went with my brother, while Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Rarity went off went with me. The ride itself wasn’t too much to talk about just a few conversations here and there. As we got there he was right the area did seem similar to the airport long roadway lots of room, just the ground has more limestone than cement but, at least the tires will grip more better. We soon prepared to race the others waited at the end while we both are at the start. Doing burnouts, we are now ready [third person] 3...2...1...Go! Arthur then pressed on the gas along with the nitrous oxide. He knows not to underestimate the skills his brother has since he’s been racing a lot longer than he has. Shifting to 4th gear, he is ahead by a short stretch, considering the rx8 has been known for it’s bad torque it surprised him to see the rx8 is catching up. Shifting to 5th the distance between them hasn’t changed much except the little distance Mike caught. Nevertheless, Mike is slowly but surely catching up and could pass him by a small inch any second. Shifting to 6th gear he quickly pressed the button for the big boost in speed as he started to pull ahead. “Too soon little bro.” Mike said, pressing his nitrous button His car then got a big boost of energy as he started to pull up behind him. Arthur was surprised to see him catch up to him, even more when the car started to get ahead of him and fast. It was up to the point of where he could see his taillights. There was nothing Arthur could do as he watched his brother cross the finish line, sure he could be one of those types of people that sideswipe their opponents but, he hates it when people do that. [first person] Doing a one-eighty I then went up to my brother as I rolled down my window. “Great race man, pulled a comeback at the last second.” I said praising him He didn’t say anything as he did a one-eighty turn and drove off to the others. Doing the same setup as we came here, we are now coming back to town. “I can’t believe you lost.” Rainbow said “Why? My brother is not to be underestimated, plus he’s been racing for a lot longer than I have.” I replied shifting up to second in a lower rpm “How long?” Rainbow asked “Hmm, about roughly 11 more years than I have, and the same applies for how long he had his car for. He knows everything about rotary engines.” “Anything?” “Yea, like if anyone has a problem with anything with their rotary car then my brother is the go-to guy to see.” “You seem really passionate about your brother Arthur dear.” Rarity said jumping in the conversation “Yea, I have a lot of feelings for him, he was the main soul reason I fell in love with this specific car.” I said Now we have arrived at town, we didn’t stay here for too long as we only came for my brother, though Paint Streak did say she might have some type of vinyl for me in a later future. Waiting for the train i stepped out to look at our cars. They are really dusty and will need some cleaning after this. The tain then arrives, although the thing that didn’t make sense to me is that the train arrived with two flatbed already intact. How the trains know about this is beyond me but, probably Twilight had something to do with this. Putting our cars on the flatbed we now head back to Ponyville. “Say Mike, how did you get here?” I ask him with Twilight sitting nearby “I should say the same for you. So after calling you I did a few things in our safehouse, Mostly refueling my car. After that I opened the door and there was a weird swirling wall. I thought I had sniffed too much of the oil but after examining it. It was real. Then you can guess the rest.” “You drove straight into it?” I added on “Yup, I landed in a remote area, so I just drove straight and found that town. They drove me out of the town with a chase...with them throwing apple pies at me.” “Apple...pies? Really?” I said in disbelief “Mmhm, most weird chase I have ever been through.” “Well the same happened to me. after hanging up I opened the door and there was a swirling wall like you said. And boom I ended up here.” I said “Hmm, there seems to be connection between you two of how you got here.” Twilight said “Well that’s obvious.” My brother said “Just that, we don’t know how to get back.” “Well, the only thing we can do at this point is wait.” I said > chapter 5: Project: Makeover > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- A few days has past since we got my brother, not much has happened although Twilight has figured out a way to make our nitrous recharge on its own which is definitely fantastic, since we only had a few bottles with us so this upgrade will definitely help out. As well my brother went and talked with the two rich ponies, needless to say my brother lashed out to them. I will say this right now Mike can get pretty scary when he’s pissed, I did warn those two; my brother will be stubborn on letting them buy it. The oil and gas we received is and I quote “The highest quality of fuel I’ve seen.” by my brother. The tournament is going to start in one day so I asked Twilight to set up a garage and a place to stay in Canterlot so we don’t have to use the train every single time to get to the tournament. Now we resided in Canterlot for this short period of time. Though I haven’t heard from Paint Streak this entire time so I don’t really have a vinyl for my car at the moment. The garage as only a few things mostly tools and currently we’re both working on making a lift and a dyno area so it could make things a little easier in tuning. Both of us aren’t really sure what to do at this point. Sure at the moment we’re making these things but, since this place is mostly isolated if you consider that the road to get to ponyville is just a dirt road which can be a nightmare for my brother. “Mike?” I say, trying to strike up a conversation “Hmm?” he replied “Do you think were going to win this event?” “Nope. Were going to get eliminated on the first match.” He responded back quickly “And if that happens, what then?” “Don’t know.” he said with his usual blank attitude Same old Mike. “What about going back home.” “There’s nothing we can do about it. It’s up to Twilight.” “Yea, though it’s a shame we can’t stay here, it’s a peaceful place.” He looks at me in disbelief and disapproval “We can’t stay here. This is not our world or dimension even, we don’t belong here, this world isn’t suitable to meet our standards. I can only hope we can get out of here soon you’re starting to like this place.” “Why wouldn’t I? With a little adjustments I’m sure we can live peacefully here.” “Maybe you can, but I can’t. You probably have been away from the cops for too long. When we get back were going on a chase.” “True, I can’t believe I’m saying this but I miss the cops.” A few hours passed by and not much has happened. Just then we heard a knock on the garage door. Hopefully that’s Paint Streak, now is a good as time as any to get a vinyl for the car. As I open the garage door I see Paint Streak standing right there. “Hi Arthur, how ya been.” Paint Streak said with a cheery smile on her face “Meh, so and so we’re busy working on something.” I replied motioning her to come in “Oh dear, then I must’ve dropped in at a wrong time then.” She says by the door still “Oh don’t worry you can work on the car, we’re just working on a little project that’s all.” She then enters in the garage. As I walk her to the car she takes out a book with the words “Ideas”. Setting it on a nearby workbench, she opened it and there was a concept art of my car in a vinyl that looked gorgeous, the yellow subaru logo on the side, the front window has the words subaru in bright yellow. “How did you draw this?” “Don’t know, something about the color and the shirt I saw you wearing just, sparked something.” “It looks really nice, I like it.” “What’s nice?” My brother came in “The vinyl.” I said showing him the book with the art “Meh, it looks alright.” he said, now he usually says these types of things. He’s the type of guy who isn’t easily impressed with a lot of things. So this type of reaction is typical. We then let Paint Streak to do her thing with the vinyl as we went back to working on the two projects. Meanwhile in Rockport [Third person] “Yea, I don’t know what happened to them. I checked every single one of their safe houses they’re not there.” Said someguy in a telephone “What do you think happened to them?” Responded the other guy “I have no idea. I really hope they come back soon, my business just isn’t the same without the both of them.” “Did you call them?” “Of course I did, I did it three time to the both of them. It just says “they’re not available.”.” “Weird.” “Yea, well it’s time to close the shop so...see ya.” “Later.” The both of them then closed their phones. The first guy who was the owner of a aftermarket shop in Rockport, closed his shop for the day. While the other guy who makes a living by making cars of all types of brands and possibly responsible for all the cars on Rockport, he can make any type of car from scratch and is amazing on how he can make these thing in a flash. Both of them are close pals of Arthur and Mikekirby. When the owner opened the back door to exit his now closed store he saw the door opening had a swirling purple portal. Extending a arm his hand disappeared in the portal. He then tried to pull his arm out, but he couldn’t. He felt his arm being consumed by the portal as he was then engulfed by the wall. At the same time the other guy was just about to leave his workshop, as he tried to enter the door leading to a garage where he parked his car. There he saw the same thing, and acted the same way, now the both of them are in a portal leading to you-know-where; Equestria. Back in Equestria Just then, the two transported humans appeared on a floor of crystals. As they were then spotted by a familiar purple Alicorn. [First person] About nearly a hour has passed and we heard knocking on the door. As I opened the door, there I saw Twilight with two familiar humans behind her. “Uh, hi Twilight.” “Hey Arthur, do you know these two Humans?” She said stepping aside “Rodrick and Brian! The hell, what are you doing here? I said seeing my two pals “The same should be asked for you.” Brian said “Well come in, all of you. We’ll discuss this with a soda pop. Hey Mike! Look who came to visit.” We all sat down and each talked about our situations all of which are similar in one area, we all called someone and a door had a portal. “The phones.” I say in taking out my phone in realization. “The phones could be our ticket to get out of here. Everyone take out your phones, Twilight maybe you can examine these things and you might find a way to teleport us out of here.” Everyone then gave Twilight their phone “I’ll see what I can do, ok.” she said teleporting away “This is a weird world we’re in.” Rodrick said “That being said what is that...pony doing?” Brian asked pointing to Paint Streak “Oh, you mean Paint Streak? She’s working on a vinyl for my car.” “Vinyl?! Then you should get a body kit as well, I can make you one in a snap.” Brain said “Body kit? What’s that?” Paint Streak said coming towards us “In a way it’s making the body different and it could mean changing the front bumper, the side skirt, and the rear bumper.” Brain explained “And which body kit do you have in mind?” I asked “Do you know body kit number three “Number three...number three...oh, you mean that body kit? I mean it’s not that bad, I honestly like the rear bumper, the front is ok, so I guess we can use that one.” I said “Count me in, on this project.” Rodrick said putting his hand out. Followed by Brain then Paint Streak. “I’ll make my custom exhaust parts.” I said putting my hand in “I’ll help out installing the body kit and moving the intercooler to the front.” Mike said putting his hand last. “Alright let’s do this.” I said as we all scrambled to work on the car. > Chapter 6: The First branch > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- While we probably stayed up for most of the night we finally got the car finished and ready to go. Since it was so late we decided to let Paint Streak sleep with us for this night, the others, Brian and Rodrick wanted to sleep in the garage, they said they wanted to do something first so the garage was all theirs for the night. The next day... While we were heading back to the garage, Paint Streak said she hadn’t had this much of a collaboration since her and Vinyl Scratch. Turns out back then, both of them had a partner relationship. However due to the both of them having different views on life, they both had to seperate from the partnership. As we opened the door there I saw the guys on the floor sleeping. Walking up to the car and seeing how much we did on the visual end, it looked amazing on my eyes. Checking underneath the hood to make sure nothing is wrong or loose, the car seems to be in fine condition. Just then, the two woke up. “Ugh, what time is it?” Rodrick said “Time for us to get going that's what.” I said “Ooh, that reminds me.” Brain said running and grabbing two objects “Arthur, Mike would like me to install you these hoods? Arthur, this one for you a speedline hood, it goes well with your headlights, along with the included stock hood I added with it. And Mike I known you wanted the tri-slot hood to go with your rx8 so I made you one.” “Ah sweet, thanks man but, will it take long to install? The competition is going to start.” I said “Might take a while so, how about I install it after the race?” he said “That’s if we last that long.” Mike said, putting emphasis on the “if” “ I still believe we won’t win this.” “Ey, come on man. Put a little optimistic feeling to yourself. Rodrick said “Well whatever happens we gave it all.” I said opening the door to my car Starting up the engine, the others said they will get to the stadium to get something prepared. Once the engine has warmed up we opened the garage door, driving out, we set a course to the stadium. Once we got there I hear a lot of commotion in the stadium, I mean that was to be expected, it is a tourney after all. We’ll have to wait a bit, the other competitors are about to make their entrance. Just then, Rodrick and Brain came along, they told us that everything is set for our entrance. All we need to do is, make a lot of skids and act cool, though I’m a little confused on the “act cool” part. What do I do to “look cool”? Use a lot of nitrous? Or attempt to do some donuts? Well whatever that means it’s time for us to do this entry. Alright Mares and Stallions, it’s time for our next contender, two wandering racers from another world! The two brothers, we give you Arthur and Mikekirby! A familiar beat started to play. As I hear the music starts, I pinched the bridge of my nose and started to chuckle, softly banging my head on the steering wheel. That song was more of a joke than anything but, the tune’s really nice. Both us know at what time would be the best to make our entrance, at the fortieth second. Both us them revved up our engines as we then bursted out of the door. The crowd surprisingly cheered for us as we drove to the field. I stopped as I did burnouts as my brother in his rear-wheeled car did donuts around me. As the next beat drops me and my brother accelerated off leaving behind smoke and rubber marks on the road. Speeding off, we soon found a barrel at the end of the road. So we then braked to turn the corner, while I did a somewhat boxy turn my brother did a perfect U-turn. Afterwards, we then raced to the starting line, as we got there we braked ahead of time and made a turn, with my brother as the first to turn followed by me. As we stepped out of our cars and giving a little wave to the crowd as I checked to see where the others were. After a quick skim view through the crowd I saw that Brain and Rodrick are in the same booth with the other six ponies. Giving a little wave in their direction, I checked my opponents. There I saw two ponies; one, who was a stallion, had a blue coat with a spiky black mane and tail with a red streak in the middle. One, who was a mare, had a blush red coat with a sapphire blue main and tail. I then approached them giving a little wave. “Hey,” I said, starting up the conversation “so you’re our opponents are you? So what’s your name?” “Hi,” said the mare “my name is Racing heart, and the stallion next to me is called Racing Streak.” “I’m Arthur and the other person over there is Mikekirby, my brother.” I said pointing to my brother “It’s very nice to meet you Arthur.” she said with a warm smile. “Well it’s been nice knowing you Racing Heart but, it’s time for us to race. See ya.” I said giving a little wave goodbye. She returns the action with a little wave as well. Walking back to my car, I can’t help but feel a little weird when next to that pegasus. Meh whatever, I can’t think about it for now. Right now, I got a race to win. As I got to my car Mike gives me a face of disapproval, like he doesn’t agree with talking to them or something. Alright stallions and mares, it’s time for the race to start. Now let me explain the rules: this is a team tag drag race. One pony from each team goes to the barrel and U-turns around it. Then, they race back to the start, once the racer crosses the finish line the next racer will start. The first team to cross the finish line wins. So, each team, choose your racer to start the race! “I’ll start this.” I said to Mike looking towards him. He gives me a nod as I entered inside the car, driving it to the starting line I saw that Racing Heart chose to go first. Doing burnouts, I revved up my engine to anticipating the race to start Alright racers, get ready!! 3...2...1...GO!!! Pressing on the gas and using some Nitrous Express, I sped out from the finish line. Shifting to 3rd gear, I saw that Racing Heart is a little far away. Shifting into 4th gear, I was slowly gaining up on Racing Heart. As Racing Heart saw me she then increased her speed using more of her energy to get ahead. “She’s being reckless.” I said “She’s not saving her energy for the last push.” Keeping this in mind, I shift into 5th gear further closing the distance. Once she again noticed me she sped up as predicted. Soon enough I saw that the barrel is in the distance, looking at my RPM range I saw that I’m near the range to shift up however, I didn’t shift up but instead, lowered down the throttle to keep myself at the same speed. As the turn came up, I immediately pressed the brake waiting for the speed to lower down. Not before Racing Heart made the turn, I shifted down to 2nd gear and made an awkward turn. “Ugh, that was more of a pentagon then a turn.” I said Pressing down on the throttle along with some Nitrous Express, I went back the opposite direction. Looking in the distance Racing Heart was a short distance away however, due to her using most of her energy during first distance she won’t be able to go much faster. Shifting up to 3rd gear I’m starting to catch up to Racing Heart. Meanwhile at the starting line…. While Arthur was making his way to the finish line. Mike was continuously revving up his engine, doing burnouts, ready to burst right out when the time comes. While from time-to-time looking at his opponent. He seems to do the pony equivalent, body leaned in, while occasionally pushing dust back with his right hoof. Both racers were getting restless. Back at the race…. Shifting up, the distance was getting between me and Racing Heart was getting closer. As Racing Heart saw me she forced herself to go much faster with all the strength she had left. However, that only backfired on her as she fell back a bit. Shifting up, I started to pull ahead of her. Looking back on my side mirror she’s only about a feet behind the driver’s seat. Shifting up the last gear, I pressed both buttons on the steering wheel to let both valves holding two Nitrous Oxide bottles release. Feeling the big boost of torque, I was pushed back into my seat a bit as the car pulled ahead placed a greater distance between me and Racing Heart as I was near the finish. Mike upon seeing Arthur nearing the finish line revved his engine to prepare for a launch. As soon as Arthur crossed the finish line first, Mike launched off with some Nitrous Express. A second later, Racing Heart then crosses the finish line as Racing Streak flew off to catch up to Mike. After a while I come to a complete stop, I stepped out of the car, the crowd roared with cheer and excitement over the race. There I saw Racing Streak on the floor panting as all her energy was gone. Walking towards her I offered her a hand to get up. She happily takes the offer at the same time giving me a little handshake or hoofshake in this case. Meanwhile…[3rd person] While Arthur was at the finish line Mike was at his way towards the barrel, with a pretty stable lead. Racing Streak wasn’t trying to catch up towards Mike, but mostly keeping a steady pace. While Mike shifts up to 5th gear his eyes lit up with anticipation, the barrel was near and he was ready to take the turn. Mike then shifts down to third, letting the engine brake to decrease his traction, with the loss of traction Mike took the turn dangerously close to the barrel. The car then retook it’s traction speeding off. At the same time, Racing Streak took the turn and used his conserved energy to get ahead of Mike. Mike then full throttled to catch up to Racing Streak, shortly Shifting up. Now it was only a matter of time, Mike just needs to get into his last gear to activate his nitrous oxide at the best time. Mike then shifts up, closing the distance, one step closer, just a bit farther. With some time Mike then shift up to his final gear, Racing Streak then did what Mike hoped he would; he sped up prematurely wanting to get ahead first. Mike then pressed one Nitrous button, accelerating quickly he passed Racing Streak in the matter of a few seconds. Mike then crossed the finish line first, the two “underdogs” won. And it Looks Like Mikekirby and Arthur won! They’ll be moving onto the next stem [1st person] Once Mike and Racing Streak came to a complete stop, Mike stepped out of his car. The crowd roared on the race that they saw. Mike then gave me a little high five. “Phew, that was a good race.” I said “It was nice I guess.” Mike said “come one, don’t be so sarcastic. You were smiling during that race, admit it.” I said, he just shrugged and kept his poker face, unhinged and no reaction, classic Mike. The two other ponies then came towards us as they gave us a little wave, “that was a great race you two, I didn’t know those little machines you got there would go that fast” Racing Heart said, “like I wow were those two cars fast” “I wouldn’t say fast, they are up to our speed, with a little practice I think we could out speed it.” Racing Streak responded “And with a bit more modding I think we can improve the speed of these cars” I commented “Don’t get cocky Arthur, these are machines not actual beings, we’re at a disadvantage, a machine has a limit, especially the engine on how much it can be pushed past its limits. There’s only so much you can do before you have to change the entire car itself. We struggled to get this win now, but the next race is going to more difficult.” Mike Added in walking in the conversation He might be right....Considering on how much of a veteran driver Mike is, having a couple more years under his hood then me, We might have a slim to none chance of winning this tournament. But considering what we have to lose which is nothing. It’s all more about putting on a show for the audience. Still though, I do miss home, even if we are on the run from the police constantly. But for Now, it's time for us to see what the next day has in store for us.