A camping trip in an alternate continuity that takes our heroines to the Everfree, a place where strange things happen and reason fails to meet reality.
It's the annual Canterlot High's camping trip to Camp Everfree and things are about to get interesting. After the recent events of the Friendship Games, Twilight Sparkle and her friends thought they can spend a relaxing week in the great outdoors and get away from the magical escapades that they experienced.
However, things didn't turn out as they had expected. Strange occurrences began to happen as a mysterious phenomenon befall the campers. Close bonds will begin to shake and reason fails to meet reality.
And then there's the new transfer student: Starlight Glimmer. Being the only person who was never exposed to any magical experience, he world will be knock upside down as she will experience a rebirth of new discoveries. Some of which... that might not be so good for her.
Our story begins on a bright and sunny day. A large coach bus had parked itself in front of Canterlot High and a fair size of students was waiting in front of it. You see, this wasn't just some ordinary school day. Today was the start for a special occasion.
Today was the start of Canterlot High's annual school camping trip To Camp Everfree
All the students were wearing light wilderness clothing and were prepared to spend a week in the great outdoors. They packed their bags and rucksacks with spare clothes, camping essentials and any snack food treats that they can gorge on. Some are coming to spend some time in the wilderness. Others are coming just so they can spend a week away from school. But regardless what the reason may be, everyone was looking forward to some fun and relaxation.
And within the crowd of students, a group of very close friends was standing next to each other with eager anticipation. Rainbow Dash- the athlete, Fluttershy- the animal lover, Rarity- the fashionista, Pinkie Pie- the party animal, Applejack- the cowgirl and Sunset Shimmer- a former bad girl who actually came from a parallel world with talking ponies. These 6 six friends had stuck together through thick and thin and might not actually come on the camping trip unless all of them were going. As they were waiting patiently, they began to chat amongst themselves.
"Ooooooh! I can't wait to get to Camp Everfree!" Pinkie Pie loudly proclaims.
"Why's that?" Sunset asked Pinkie.
Pinkie loudly replies: "Because we can get to roast marshmallows by the campfire, eat marshmallows for breakfast, lunch and dinner and slip on marshmallow pillows when we get tired!"
"Wow. You really like marshmallows, don't you Pinkie?" Sunset sarcastically responded.
Feeling slightly insulted, Pinkie asks her friends: "Ok, so what are you all looking forward to then?"
Rainbow Dash relaxed stance with her hands behind her head and says: "To try out those fun camping activities. You know, canoeing and rock climbing."
Applejack replies: "I'm just lookin' forward to roughin' it in the woods. I'm gonna make my own shelter, forage for food..."
"Even though they will already provide all that when we get there" Dash responded, much to AJ's anger.
Rarity just calmly says: "Hmm? I think I'm just gonna get some R&R by the lake, get some inspiration from the forest, maybe start a fashion show."
But as everybody was enjoying the moment, Sunset suddenly notices that Fluttershy was looking antsy. She constantly turns her head back and forth and looks down either side of the street. This cause Sunset to become concerned and asks her: "Hey, what's the matter Fluttershy?"
With all of her friend's eyes on her, Fluttershy explains: "Well... Have any of you seen Twilight yet?"
All of them were the hit with a cold blow of realization. None of them had seen Twilight yet this morning and it was getting close for them to go. Worrying thoughts ran rampant in their minds, ranging from sleeping into being delayed on her way to them. But before they get too worried, a familiar voice calls out in the distance.
"Hey, You Guys!"
They all look towards the street, and lo and behold, they saw Twilight Sparkle running towards them with her pet Spike the dog. Relief swept all 6 girls as their dearest friend manages to attend in the nick of time. When she got to them, Twilight took a moment to catch her tired breath.
Twilight tried to explain: "Sorry... To keep you... Waiting guys..." She then took one large breath to properly compose herself. "It seemed like I slept on my alarm clock this morning and didn't hear it ring."
"Ahem" Spike sounded (with the actual sound being a short growl since he's a dog).
Twilight then reiterates: "And if it wasn't for Spike waking me up, I might not have been able to arrive on time."
Rarity rests her hand on Twilight's shoulder and tells her: "Well the important thing is that you arrive just in time."
With her friends looking pleased to see her, Twilight felt pleased in return. If you would ask any of them, they would say that their friendship was thanks to Twilight. Twilight would just give a humble reply and say that she would do what anybody else would do.
But as Twilight and her friends were enjoying their heart-warming moment, a loud and motherly voice shout out to all the students. "Ok, Everyone! Can I Get Your Attention Please?!" When everyone looks towards the bus, they saw the teachers are standing at the ready: Principal Celestia, Vice Principal Luna, and Discord- their bus driver.
With everyone's attention on their principal, Celestia says to her students: "First of, let me take a moment thank you all for attending. The campsite there we're going to is very dear to us because it was a place that we went to in our high school."
Vice Principal Luna went further into detail by explaining: "Yes. We went hiking in the woods, spelunking in the crystal caves, interacting with the small woodland critters..."
"And be scared by bears at night."
"Only because it was you in a bear costume Discord!"
Celestia regain everybody's attention by saying: "Well anyway, we hope that you'd enjoy Camp Everfree as much as we did!"
After that, the students gave a reassuring applause to show off their eagerness and to please their principal. With the announcement out of the way, Discord became the center of attention to explains:
"Ok kiddies! Put all your bags and stuff in my little coach's storage compartment and make your way inside my bus."
And with that, Discord open up the storage compartment and open up the coach's door. There was a steady line of students who put away all of their bags and eventually went onto the bus. There wasn't much of a hassle and so there wasn't much of a problem. After all of her friends put their stuff into the storage, it came time for Twilight to put away her stuff along with them.
But as she was about to do so, Twilight accidentally bump into somebody as she was about to put away her bag. "Oh sorry" she sounded, acted quickly to apologize."
"Nah, that's ok. I think I may have bumped into you."
When Twilight looks at the person that she bumped into, she realizes that it was somebody new. Somebody with a light pinkish skin color, a blue highlight in her purple hair and a student who hadn't been at CHS for very long.
When she finally recognizes her, Twilight happily exclaims: "Hey! You’re Starlight Glimmer, right?"
Surprised, Starlight replies: "Oh! You know who I am!"
"Yeah well, I was in your class on your first day of school and so I remember your introduction. My name is Twilight Sparkle by the way."
"Well nice to meet you Twilight"
Both girls then give each other a friendly handshake. But as they did so, they soon heard the annoyed sounds of the other students who hadn't;t put their stuff away yet. Embarrassed and frightened by their angry looks, Twilight and Starlight quickly get out of the way and join the line to get on the bus. With no annoyed teenagers behind them, they continue their conversation.
"So how are you finding CHS?" Twilight asked her.
Starlight replies: "I think I'm actually fitting in quite well. Everybody seems really nice and the classes aren't too hard."
"Well, that's great. Hey, do you know that I was the "new transfer student" before you?"
"What! No Way!"
"Yes, Way!"
As they were enjoying their conversation, both Twilight and Starlight was making their way up the bus stairs. As they were getting into the bus (with Spike still close to her side), Twilight had remembered that she might sit next to her friends. However, since she was having a nice time talking with Starlight and she might not have many friends yet, she got an idea.
"Hey Starlight, if you haven't made any friends yet, do you want to sit next with me and my friends?"
Starlight took a moment to way the option, but she soon replies: "Thanks for the offer Twilight, but I have to say no. I actually promised to sit next to a person that I know."
Twilight was initially annoyed at first but soon got over it. That just means that Starlight had made a friend already. However, when she thought that she would be bothered by it, she soon finds out who that friend is.
"Starlight! Hurry-Up and Sit Next To Me!"
"Coming Trixie!"
"Trixie!!"
Twilight then watched as Starlight slowly moves through the bus and sat next to Trixie. When she sat down, they looked happy at one other since they are together... but then Trixie made a quick smug look towards Twilight. Twilight, on the other hand, was left shocked that Starlight had picked Trixie over her. While they are still on (somewhat) friendly terms with one another; Trixie tries to enact a rivalry with her and her friends that get pretty annoying.
However, despite how much she might not like it, Twilight has to respect Starlight decision. At least she can still sit next to her friends at least. She moves down the bus where all of her friends occupy one portion of the coach. They all seemed busy interacting with each other but still take the moment to address Twilight when got near.
"Hey, Twilight. Where have you been?" asked Applejack.
Twilight explains: "Oh, I was just speaking with Starlight Glimmer."
"The new transfer student?" Pinkie inquires.
"Yes and she seems really nice. And it seems like she's already acclimated into CHS."
"Acclimated?" Rainbow asked.
Rarity explains to Rainbow: "It just means that she has gotten used to studying here."
"Oh ok. Then why didn't she just say that instead?"
As things were getting along, Twilight decided to sit next to Sunset since she was sitting on her own. But once she sat down and buckled into her seat, she then notices that Sunset was staring off into the window. She seemed like she was deep in thought and looked very troubled as she does.
Concerned, Twilight asked her: "Are you alright Sunset?"
Snapping back into reality, Sunset realized that Twilight had asked her a question and so she replies: "Oh! I was just deep in thought. Wondering... what we might find at camp..."
Sunset froze before she could finish saying that camp's name. Confused, Twilight says: "Camp Everfree?"
"Yes! That's it!" Sunset sounded, trying to act brave and unconcerned. "I just forgot what it was called. That's all."
"Ok then?" Twilight replied, not believing that response for a second. However, since Sunset still looked so troubled, she thought that she won't dig any deeper.
However, she did dig any deeper, she might have found out some of the fears that were plaguing Sunset Shimmer. She was constantly thinking about the word: "Everfree" and the terrifying things that are associated with that word. For you see, Sunset already knows a place that got "Everfree" in its name and it's a place that she does not like. A place, in her home world of Equestria, that houses many dangers and monsters that lurk within it.
However, whatever worries that she might have, Sunset says to herself that she's overthinking it. There's no way that the place that they're going to camp at is anyway similar to the place that she's thinking of. Right?
It has been several hours. Several long hours of driving of the coach going down the road, leaving the city limits and going into the countryside. It was a calming journey (if a little boring) that everybody just sits back and relaxes. Some students were playing a few video games and try to text while they still have reception. A few of them did try to chat amongst themselves, but the long trip drained any sort of conversation that they may have. In the end, almost everybody fell asleep and rest on the bus seats.
But then, as even Discord started to feel his eyelids becoming heavy, they finally reach their destination. As soon as they enter the depth of the forest, Discord ring a bell that he had installed over his head and loudly declare:
"Wakey-Wakey Kiddies! We're finally here!"
The loud and annoying chime soon pull everyone up from the depths of sleep. They stretch their arms and legs and get rid off any stiffness they have in their bodies. Once they fully awake and look outside their windows, they saw tall trees and lush nature as far as the eye can see. Tiny squirrels and bunnies scurry away at the sight of the bus but Fluttershy still notice them and she was ecstatic to see them.
However, they soon leave the somewhat dense trees and enter to a large clearing. And in this clearing, the students saw finally could see Camp Everfree. The main mess hall, a large totem pole, a gazebo, a wide open lake, and an array of outdoor activities the includes rock climbing and archery. When Twilight, Sunset, and the others saw all of this, the couldn't wait to get off the bus.
Once Discord finally parked the bus at the appropriate spot, he finally declares: "Ok boys and girls! Get off the bus and embrace the wild wilderness that befalls you!"
And just like that, everybody was getting off of their seats and making their way off of the bus. Once they were outside, they all take in the fresh clean air stretch away whatever stiffness that they may still have. Rainbow Dash, after jumping off the bus:
"Finally! Any longer in there and I would fear my limbs would fall off!"
"I know, right?" Pinkie responded, appearing right next to RD.
While Discord became grumpy over the remark, Fluttershy gets off the bus and breaths in the fresh air. "But still, can you all smell the beauty of Camp Everfree? The sun shining in the sky, the wind blowing through our hair, the tiny birds landing on our..."
But Rainbow interjects: "Yeah-yeah-yeah. "The beauty of nature" and all that. Just be careful that you don't block the passage for everybody else who's getting off the bus."
Fluttershy looks back and realizes that she really was everybody up as she could see Rarity waiting patiently in the doorway. "Sorry" she apologizes while moving out of the way.
"That's OK dearie" Rarity replied. "We all have our moments."
No long afterward, all the students were finally off the bus and standing on fresh grass. They all were standing around and chatting, waiting for the teachers to open up the coach's trunk so they could get their stuff. But while they were waiting, the campsite's P.A system turned on and a peppy feminine voice speaks through it.
"Hey Everyone and Welcome to Camp Everfree! Once all of you get your stuff, come by the courtyard so we can start your best week of camp, EVER!"
And with that, the teachers finally open the storage compartment that has all their bags and stuff. Seeing all their belongings right before them, they all began collecting their stuff and head towards the location that the P.A system specified. It wasn't too much of a hassle. There was a few bag tossing around but everybody manages to find their stuff in the end.
But then there was a small issue. As Twilight was reaching out her hand towards her bag, she accidentally touches hands with somebody else besides her. But when she turned to apologize...
"Flash!"
"Twilight!"
Both teens jump back, surprised to see the other. Twilight's and Flash's faces both turn red as they both were experiencing a large amount of shyness, awkwardness, and embarrassment.
"Hey Flash...What are you doing here?"
"Well um......... Oh! I'm getting my bag of course! I mean, what else would I be doing?"
"Oh of course, of course! How silly of me. Just let me grab my bag and I'll be out of your way."
"What! I'm not in your wayNo! You're not in my way but... Just let me..."
Both then made an awkward attempt to grab their bags. From afar, Twilight's friends was witnessing her being next to Flash and had smirks on their faces. They had always paired the two of them in their minds and they were thinking that the camping trip might be a good way to get them closer together. However, as they were watching them...
"Ouch! Hey, Watch It!"
"Sorry! Hey, don't grab over there! Just- Ouch!"
"Oh! Now I'm Sorry!"
Both Flash and Twilight was tripping over each other and was making an embarrassing display of mistakes. Twilight's friends could sense that something's wrong as they know that they aren't this awkward around each other. Eventually, Spike had enough of it and he barks:
"Ok! That is enough!"
Spike then squeeze through between their legs, cause Flash and Twilight to step away. He then jumps into the storage compartment and tosses the both of them their bags. Both teens had an ashamed look on their faces as a dog just did their work for them.
Once Spike jumps out and walks towards the others, Twilight and Flash had one more moment to laugh awkwardly to each other before making their separate ways. Twilight return back to her friends and they all began making her way towards the courtyard. They all could see the troubled look that was on her face and all of them were concerned.
"Is everything ok dearie?" Rarity asks her.
But Twilight calmly replies: "Yeah, everything's fine. Let's just head to the courtyard and get our sleeping arrangements."
Rarity and the others could still tell that something is up. However, they will respect Twilight's privacy and are happy to wait for when she's ready to talk about it. So all they could do now is to follow everyone else and meet their camp counselors.
Once everybody had gotten their stuff, all the students had gone to the camp's courtyard. There, they saw a pair counselors (who look surprisingly young to actually be camp counselors) standing on the gazebo. One of them was a charming young lady with a tiara of flowers on her head and the other is a rather handsome dude with green hair and a beanie hat. For the more susceptible campers, they already started developing weird romantic feelings for the pair. But for the more mature campers, they seem like a friendly enough pair of instructors that they will trust them with their safety.
"Why, hello there everybody!" greeted the female counselor. "I'm Gloriosa Daisy and I'm your camp director!"
"And I'm Timber Spruce, her twin brother" the male counselor introduced.
Gloriosa then explains: "Just think of me as the nice one who has all the fun stuff in store for you all!"
But then Timber quickly quips: "And just consider me as the cool one who gets invited to the cool stuff." Both Timber and Gloriosa than gave a rather competitive glare towards the other, almost like that they try to upstage the other.
"*Pft* Try hards" Rainbow silently remarked.
Once the two finish glaring at the other, Gloriosa finally went down to business. "Well anyway, before we assign tents and find out who our tent buddies are, we would like to hear from all of you. Here as Camp Everfree, we take a "restriction free" approach to things. Whatever you say, as long as it's fun and safe to do, we can do it."
When Gloriosa said that, all the CHS students instantly became intrigued. Once they heard that they can suggest anything that they want, all of their head run wild with ideas. And Gloriosa's open examples didn't help matters.
"Sailing on the lake, stories around the campfire, hiking in the woods..."
But then Timber Spruce interrupts her to say "E-Except for going near the rock quarry! That place is currently off-limits. Isn't it Glori'?"
"Well um... Yes! Thanks for reminding me Timber!"
At first, nobody seems to bat an eye to this. They all just thought it was a reasonable restriction that all of them could follow. However, Starlight Glimmer then raises her hand and asks: "Um! Why aren't we allowed to go near the rock quarry?"
Both Gloriosa and Timber instantly froze to the question. It almost seems like they never expected to be asked that. However, Timber then cross his arms, look towards his sisters and says: "Hey sis, remind me what that reason again?"
Gloriosa, after taking a moment to stammer, finally replies: "Well ugh... It's currently being renovated and making it safe for campers to. So for now, please stay away from there for your safety."
Starlight found the response as a legitimate reason and was happy with her answer that she got.
"So anyway, does anybody have any other questions? Maybe any suggestions perhaps?"
One by one, the students eagerly shout out their ideas and wants like there was no tomorrow.
"Rock Climbing!" Rainbow Shouted
"Settled!"
"Scavenger Hunt!?" shouted by one of the male campers.
And Gloriosa cheerily replies: "I'll supply the walking sticks!"
Pinkie then shouts: "Baking Cookies!"
But Glori' then responded by saying: "Ooh I don't know? I do make a mean sugar cookie."
Pinkie then squinted her eyes and silently replies: "You're on."
And then, seizing her opportunity, Rarity shot up her arms and shouted: "Oh! Oh! Oh! What about a Fashion Show!?" Rarity then notices the weird look from all of her friends. "What? I can't get what I want?"
And Gloriosa replies: "Don't worry. A fashion show is a Camp Everfree tradition!"
But then Timber secretly whisper in her ear: "What? But we never have done a fashion show bef..."
However, Gloriosa then interrupts and whisper back at him: "Don't worry. I got this."
But then, as everyone was getting excited for the fun events ahead of them, Sunset Shimmer suddenly remembered one of her issues. While nobody else was shouting out their ideas, Sunset raise her hand and softly call out: "Gloriosa?"
Hearing her name being called, Glori' turn to Sunset and asks: "Got another suggestion?"
However, Sunset's explains: "Actually, I've got a question rather than a suggestion." Sunset's friends then notice the somber tone that was in her voice and could quickly tell that something is worrying her.
Glori' replies: "Um... ok then. What's your question?"
After a deep breath, Sunset asks: "Um... Why is this place called "Camp Everfree?"
Gloriosa and Sunset's friends were somewhat surprised. They were half expecting a somewhat serious question like if animals will enter the camp at night. Gloriosa then answers: "Why that's simple. It's because we're named after the forest of course!"
However, her answer didn't calm Sunset down and in fact made her more worried. "The... Forest!?"
"Yes! The Everfree Forest!"
Sunset's eyes widened.
Worried, Twilight got up beside her and softly calls out: "Sunset?"
Moments later, there was frantic shouting by the bus.
Screamed Sunset Shimmer as she tries to get back onto the bus. Twilight, Rainbow and the other trying desperately to hold Sunset down and stopping her from.
"SUNSET! STOP!" Twilight desperately shouted.
"TELL US WHAT'S WRONG!" Fluttershy cried out.
However, Sunset ignores all of her friend's support and just shouts: "IFYOUKNOWWHAT'SGOODFORYOU-THENLETMEGO!"
"What?" Rarity responded, confused on what she said.
And Pinkie Pie then explains to Rarity: "I think she said "If you know what's good for you, then let me go"?" Rarity appreciates Pinkie's clarification, but that still won't help them understand Sunset's panic.
Eventually, Applejack had enough. She steps away from Sunset for a bit, spits into her hands and rubs them vigorously. So when she grabs back onto Sunset, she had a much firmer grip. However, when AJ made her tug, something strange happened. What she thought would be a fairly strong pull ended up being 10x stronger than what she expected. All of them fall back and Sunset flew back several feet.
"Woah!"
"Raaa!"
It took a minute for everyone to recover from Applejack's surge of strength (AJ included). But then they do, Rainbow says to her: "Ok AJ, maybe next time, hold back just a little bit."
"Sorry yall" Applejack apologized. "I guess I'm stronger than what I thought I am?"
However, even though some of them were a little bit sore, none of them is going to hold it against Applejack. They all were more concerned about Sunset who was already on her feet and was more jittery than they even see her. They all quickly more towards and hold onto either side of her. Both to make sure she doesn't try to do a runner and to comfort.
"Ok Sunset. Tell us what's wrong?" Twilight sternly asked.
See that her friends got a firm grip on her, Sunset could see that she can't run away. There was also a heavy feeling in her heart. Something that compels her to explain her fears to her friends and make them understand. After taking a deep breath, Sunset shares to friends her worries.
"It just that... We're in The Everfree Forest You Guys!"
Sunset's friends could see the panic look on Sunset, but they still couldn't understand what is making her so scared. Rainbow Dash says back to her: "Um, yeah? What about it?"
Sunset voice became even more frantic and she says to all of them: "You Guys Don't Understand! Back in my world, the Everfree Forest is a Dangerous place that no-pony dread to enter."
At that moment, Twilight and the others had a little bit of insight to Sunset's fears and remember an important aspect about her: she's ain't from their world. They remember that Sunset is actually from a magical parallel world (where everybody is a pony for some reason) that has many phenomenal elements. It is actually the source of their magical powers and the magical problems that tend to give them trouble. And if there's something about Sunset world's Everfree Forest that scares her, then it must be something scary.
Fluttershy sheepishly asks: "What about this Everfree Forest that scares you so much?"
After barely calming down (but still shaking nervously), Sunset tells her friends who were leaning in: "The Everfree Forest is an unnatural place where weird stuff happens all the time. It's a place where plants grow, animals look after and clouds move ALL BY THEMSELVES!"
Twilight and the others... were understandably confused and fall into silence.
Rainbow Dash responds: "Um... What's so scary about..."
"YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND!" Sunset shouted, interrupting her. She explains: "Pony take control of everything in my world. Earth ponies grow the plants, the sky pegasi control the weather and even our royal princesses control the sun and the moon! If there's a place that doesn't everything by itself, then we deem it unnatural and we stay away from it."
Ok, after getting some more clarification, Sunset's friends had a better understanding about some of her worries. They are still confused about why the ponies have a deep control on their nature and such, but they are more concerned about calming Sunset down than anything else.
In a calm and gentle voice, Rarity says to Sunset: "It's ok dearie. Calm down. This isn't the same forest that is in your Equestria."
Pinkie Pie then adds: "And besides: clouds move and stuff on their own all the time. Haven't you notice it yet?"
"Well... yeah. It was a bit shocking at first, but I eventually got used to it." At that moment, everyone had thought that they finally calm Sunset down. However, Sunset's panic voice soon return and she thinks out loud: "But... If that what's count as normal in this world, what would "The Everfree" do to make it abnormal!?"
As Sunset began to hyperventilate, a stern Twilight tells her: "Sunset, if there really was something "abnormal" about this forest, they wouldn't open a camp here."
"Yeah... You're right..." Sunset muttered, saying it more towards herself than to her friend.
Finally, Sunset has calmed down enough. She still was shaken up and looks extremely worried, but having her friends around her seems to make her less tense. Twilight than just look on a few feet away, wondering how she would react over the next few days. All that she could hope for now is for Sunset to realize that there's nothing scary at Camp Everfree and enjoy herself.
And then suddenly, Twilight heard some grass being stepped on behind her and a voice calls out for her name.
"Twilight?"
When Twilight turns around, she saw that it was Starlight Glimmer who was looking curious and worried.
"Is everything ok? Your friend seemed awfully scared all of a sudden and looks quite shaken up. What is up with that?"
Twilight began to chuckle nervously, wondering how she should explain it to Starlight. She doesn't want to explain that Sunset is from another world because it sounds too unbelievable and she doesn't want to freak her out. Twilight quickly come up with a convincing lie and tells her:
"Yeah well, turns out that Sunset has some repressed memories of going to camp and coming here must have brought them all back."
"Really!" Starlight replied. "Well, maybe she should just go home if she's that scared about staying here?"
However, Discord then suddenly appears and tells them all: "No can do! I'm not making a return trip back to town just so I can drop off one little girl." He then presses a button on his keychain, locking the bus and putting on the alarm. Some of the girls became somewhat angry by this as they saw Discord as being unreasonable and lazy.
However, Sunset then tells all of her friends: "That's alright you guys. [Massive sigh]... I'll see if I can stick it out."
At that, Fluttershy and the others were still worried for Sunset, but they do commend her for her bravery. Once she saw that everything is under wraps, Starlight tell everyone: "Ok well, I'm here to let you know that they've started giving out tent assignments to everybody. So unless you want to sleep out in the dark woods at night..."
"Huh!"
"Sorry! Just... head back over and get your assigned tents."
"Ok Starlight. Thank!" Twilight happily replied.
And after Twilight said head her thanks, Starlight cheerily head back to the others. Seeing that Sunset is remaining calm and they got no other business by the bus, everyone figured that they should return to. But as they all were walking back, Pinkie Pie was deep in thought.
"Hmm..."
Noticed that Pinkie was thinking, Applejack asks her: "Somethin' on your mind Pinkie Pie?"
"Eh, nothing much. Just that out of everyone here, Starlight is the only one who doesn't know anything about magic."
When Pinkie said that out loud, everyone made the same realization. Starlight really doesn't know anything about the magical ordeals that the school had to go through or the magical powers that they possess. Just thinking about everything that they went through, though not too traumatizing, is still freaky and scary to think about it.
Pinkie then ponders out loud: "I was just wondering if we should tell Starlight about all the magic and stuff. Giving her a heads up you know."
However, Rarity replies: "I'm not so sure about that dearie. We don't want to overload the poor girl with our misadventures."
"Yeah, an' I was hoping that we get away from all that magic stuff while we're out here" Applejack added.
And then Sunset, seeping into her scared state: "But don't you think we should at least warn her? You know... about..." She then stuttered, looking down into the forest in fear that she might see something.
But then Fluttershy asks: "But do we have to make her worry? We're not at school and there shouldn't be any magic here at camp."
After giving it much consideration, Twilight tell all her friends: "How about if she does find out about our magic, we should explain everything to her and make it clear that she's isn't in any danger. But if Starlight doesn't find out, we'll wait until we get back to school. Does that sound alright with all of you?"
One by one, everyone voices their agreement.
"Yeah, that sounds ok."
"That's alright by me."
"Yeah, let's just relax and have a mini-vacation."
Rainbow Dash then remarks: "As always, Twilight is the one who comes up with the clever plans."
"Well ain't the residential nerd of the group?" Twilight joked back.
Everyone then burst out chuckling to Twilight's joke. And before they knew it, they found themselves back with the others.
In front of the gazebo was a box on a table. And in front of the box on a table was a line of campers who want to find out their tent arrangements. Once they got to the box, they pull out a card that says which tent they belong to and then they went off to look for it. It was a fairly simple process and everyone was moving adequately enough. Even Twilight, who was at the back of the line, soon finds herself in the middle of it.
But as she was waiting patiently, Twilight suddenly heard a sound. It wasn't a loud sound, but she did hear something falling down by her feet. Twilight looked down and found a discarded cell phone (with a tree symbol on the cover) lying by her feet. Thinking that somebody had dropped it, she kneels down and picks it up.
But as she was about to touch the cell phone, another hand suddenly appeared and accidentally touch Twilight's hand.
"Oh Sorry!" said Twilight and the other person who both quickly apologized.
When Twilight looks up and sees who the other person, she was taken aback on who it was.
"Hey! You're..."
"Timber Spruce?" he sarcastically asked.
Twilight was left so surprisedly that she stand back up without picking up the phone. Timber did and he explains: "Thanks for trying to pick up my phone. But like what my sister tend to say, I got this."
"Your... the other camp counselor who was with Gloriosa?"
"The very same."
Even though Twilight couldn't sense some malevolent intent from Timber, she could sense an ulterior motive from. She went back into the line, hoping that he would move on and continue with his camp counselor business. But much to her dismay, Timber lingered.
"Do you want to know something?"
"What's that?" Twilight asked blankly.
"We're having a rock coloring system to sort out tent assignments. So if you get the ruby card, you go to the red tent. If you get the amethyst card, you go to the purple tent. And if you get the sapphire card..."
"I'd go to the blue tent. Even though..."
"Even though sapphires aren't always blue. Some times they're pink, yellow..."
"And purple, I know. It just that blue is the sapphire's most common color."
"And..."
"And it's named after the Latin word sapphirus, which means..."
"Yes. Blue. I already know all of this."
"Oh! So you do!"
Twilight was slightly annoyed. She will admit that talking with a guy who is as smart in rocks and geology as she is somewhat refreshing, but she could tell that Timber is trying way too hard to get her attention. And upon seeing Flash looking jealous from the distance, Twilight could tell that she will be having far more boy trouble on this trip than she expected.
Luckily, it was Twilight's turn to pull a card out of the box. She reaches inside and pulls out a purple peridot card. Twilight was somewhat happy for getting her card (because it so happens that peridot is her favorite rock), but then Timber got up beside her and says:
"Ooh! Lucky. You got the peridot tent. That's actually the best tent we got here."
Twilight huffs and says towards Timber: "Oh please! I bet you say that to all the campers that you like."
But Timber replied: "Not true. Just watch." He then turns towards Bulk Biceps who was walking nearby with his card and says: "Aww, tough luck. You got the amethyst tent. That's actually the worst tent."
Bulk Biceps, upon hearing the somewhat harsh words towards him, suddenly began feeling depressed and hangs his head in sadness. Timber thought he set a noticeable impression. However, when he turns back towards her, Twilight had her arms crossed and looked angrily at him.
"That's not cool" she coldly remarked. "That's not cool at all."
Timber soon realize that he greatly upset her and angered. He quickly turns back towards Bulk and says to him: "Hey-hey-hey! Sorry mate, I'm only joking. Let me... take you to your tent." Feeling slightly better, Bulk willingly follow Timber to his tent. Timber look back and saw that Twilight is still angry towards him. Service to say but... he blew it.
Twilight, finally knowing what tent she belongs to, heads off and try to find her tent.
Twilight (accompanying with her dog Spike) was walking through the tent area to find her own tent. But as she was walking, she discovers that most of her friends were being paired together. Rainbow Dash was with Pinkie Pie, Applejack was with Rarity and they told her that Sunset is in the same tent as her. Fluttershy was paired with somebody else but it was with Vinyl Scratch so it isn't somebody they don't know. She also heard that Starlight Glimmer will be sleeping with Trixie and she isn't annoyed by that at all.
Anyway, Twilight and Spike had found the peridot tent. She thinks that Sunset was already inside and unpacking some of her stuff and she would like to do so on her own. After taking a deep breath, Twilight unzip the opening flap and step inside.
"Sunset? Are you in here?"
However, when she steps inside, Twilight made a somewhat shocking discovery. All across the tent was a series of strings connect to either side of the tent walls. And on those strings were tiny bells that will ring if you so much brush on the string that holds them. It was a makeshift security system and Twilight could see the paranoid girl who made it on the left side bed and had wrapped her blanket around her like a cocoon.
Sunset says with a surprised: "Oh Twilight! It's you!"
Shocked and confused, Twilight asks her: "Sunset, what is all of this?"
"Oh this is just my homemade security system" Sunset cheerily explained. "Since the camp is named after the Everfree, I thought I would prepare myself and bring a lot of stuff that will protect. Well, it's a good thing that I brought them because my paranoia is warranted.
Twilight sighed. It looks like that Sunset hadn't gotten over her fears of being in the Everfree Forest and it seems like she won't be for quite some time. "Really Sunset?" Twilight exclaimed. "We've been over this. There's nothing dangerous in the Everfree Forest." She then moves towards the right side and to the walls where the strings are attached with sellotape.
"Don't Touch That!" Sunset yelled.
"Oh come on Sunset! I need to unpack my stuff too and how are you suppose to move around with all these strings in the way?"
Sunset was silent, even when Twilight was removing the bell tied strings from the wall. She knows that all of her fears are in her head, but for every string that Twilight pulls down, the less secured that she feels. Eventually, Sunset moans: "Ok, but keep the string that I tied between our beds."
Twilight sighs, rolled her eyes, and replies: "Sure Sunset."
Like she said, Twilight removed all the strings except for the one between their beds. With that out of the way, she could finally unpack. The first thing she pulls out was Spike's doggie bed so he can quickly rest on. Then she pulls out her spare clothes, a spare pillow, sunscreen, food for herself and Spike, a microscope, test tubes, a couple of bowls and containers, weird machines and...
"What is all that stuff Twilight?" Sunset asked, looking at the weird science equipment that she brought.
"Hm?! Oh, these! I just thought I would do some experimenting while I'm here so I brought some of my home lab equipment."
"Really?"
"Well like what I told the others, I'm the nerd in our group."
Sunset rolls her eyes. She has somewhat forgotten that Twilight is a nerd as Sunset and their other friends often see Twilight as their leader. But as she was waiting around, Sunset suddenly notice Flash Sentry through their tent's flap. She then got an idea.
Sunset passively asks: "You know... There's something that you can do to help me get over the Everfree."
Inadvetavly taking the bait, Twilight turn around and asks: "Really! What's that?"
"You can tell me what happened between you and Flash Sentry?"
"What!" Twilight stammered and lock up. "I-I-I-I d-don't know what you're talking about!"
"Oh come on Twilight. All of us saw you two acting weird by the bus. Something happened between you and Flash Sentry that strained your relationship."
"But We're Not In A Relationship!" Twilight angrily exclaimed.
However, as Twilight was looking angrily at Sunset, Sunset suddenly put up the absolute saddest expression to throw her off guard. It was so off putting that Twilight could put an angry expression towards her. She also couldn't explain it but she felt that Sunset learn that from Spike. Eventually, Sunset's sad look broke Twilight and she says:
"Ok, Fine! I'll Tell You! Just know that you weren't really playing fair."
And Sunset sarcastically remarks: "Well I am the former bad girl in our group." Even though Twilight was still mad at her, she couldn't help but admit that Sunset's joke was kind of clever.
After making a long sigh and she put down her stuff, Twilight tells her: "Before I start, promise me that you won't tell this to the others."
"I promise" Sunset sincerely replied.
"Ok... The other week, I had my first date with Flash..."
"NO WAY!"
"Hey! If you want me to tell you, it would help if you don't interrupt me."
"Sorry!"
"*Sigh* Well anyway, after many months of persisting and get me to like him, I finally said yes to Flash and we both agree to see a movie. However, when we got to the movie theater, the movie that we were going to watch was sold out at the last second (I knew we should have left 5 minutes early). We were bummed out but we try to make the most of it. We found a restaurant and so we decided to have dinner instead. But when we got inside and we were waiting for our meal, we found out that we got NOTHING to talk about!"
"Nothing at all?" Sunset sheepishly asked.
Twilight regretfully replies: "No and we ended up throwing the most meaningless banter to each other. It should have been obvious. I'm a science nerd and Flash is a rock star. We don't exactly have many things in common. We ended up telling unfunny jokes to weird childhood stories. And then our food did arrive but it turns out it was somebody else's meal. Management got involve and gave "couple discounts" to everyone and the whole thing is just confusing and awkward."
Sunset comments: "Wow. Sounds like you had a rough date."
And with a depressing sigh, Twilight explains: "Yeah, we did. And now we can't decide if we weren't meant for each other or we should try to go on another date."
Sunset could help but feel sad for Twilight. She thinks that her and Flash could make a good pair (obviously better when she tried dating Flash) and hopefully see their relationship succeed. However, after hearing that story, even she was starting to have doubts and was thinking if she and the others only thinks could make a cute couple. Eventually, Sunset says as advice:
"Well I don't know what to say but... just give it some time to think about your feelings. Just think if you two can really get along well with each other?"
In a somber tone, Twilight replies: "Thanks, Sunset. We already thought of that, but still thanks."
And then suddenly, Gloriosa's voice appears over the speakers and she says: "Alright Campers! Time to get the first set of activities started. Put on your sunscreen (if you got any) and meet me at the docks in 10 minutes!"
And with that announcement, Twilight and Sunset realize the next thing they need to do. They were sort of imagining that they're going to do some sort of water activities (although Sunset was also expecting to see some lake monsters or mermaids) and so they need to prepare for that. Twilight grab her sunscreen (not noticing that it levitated into her hand) and then she exclaims while walking out of the tent:
Let's temporally step away from the activities in the forest and return to a place that we are familiar with. Back at Canterlot High, the school is a little more lively within its walls. Due to the absence of their head principal and vice principal, Cheerlie was voted as the acting principal while the other teachers pick up the slack. As for the student, the younger years was given a chance to shine as some of the older students are also out on the camping trip. Aside from a few missing students, everything was mostly normal at Canterlot High.
However, while everything is remaining normal, that doesn't mean that everybody is currently happy. During the lunch period at the cafeteria, Adagio Dazzling, a human-bound siren who is begrudgingly attending CHS, is sitting at an empty table on the far side of the room. She's waiting on the verge of impatience for her two friends/sisters and was just monitoring the cafeteria to pass the time. She looks out at all the other students and just watches as they all interact happily together. Laughing, chatting, cliques socializing with ones that you wouldn't expect. Adagio was frustrated with the happy and friendly scenery because it was making her...
"Hey, Adagio" Aria greeted as she arrives (and stopping her train of thought).
"You're late" Adagio angrily exclaimed.
Aria explains as she sits down in her seat: "Sorry. The teacher held me back because I was listening to music in class."
"Which subject was it?"
"English Studies."
"Ah! The boring subject. Understandable."
However, even though Aria has just arrived and sat down next to her, Adagio's attitude hadn't changed. In fact, their table now has two girls who look very grumpy and staring out towards the rest of the hall.
"So where's Sonata?" Aria asked.
"She's getting us our food" Adagio replied. "And speaking of which..."
And soon as Adagio says that, Sonata has arrived while carrying three sets of food trays. She was also balancing them really well too as none of them were shaking while she was moving. However, neither Aria or Adagio was amazed by this and was more concerned about their food.
Sonata happily exclaims: "Ok girls, today's special is pizza and I think I got everyone's orders right! You (Adagio) doesn't care what she'll have so I've ordered your's with fruit. You (Aria) like meat so I got you salami. Meanwhile, I'll have my slice with cheese because I like cheesy pizza." And then, when Sonata notices Aria, she asks her: "Oh Aria! Hi! When did you get here?"
"I've just arrived" Aria blankly replied.
And with that, the "Dazzlings" had come together (although in no spectacular way). As soon as Sonata put down the food and sat down next to Adagio, Adagio felt energized to start their meeting.
"Ok Girls! Listen up!
Aria, who was interrupted before she even started eating, angrily exclaims: "Really Adagio... Now?"
"Yeah! Can't we eat AND listen to you?" Sonata moaned.
"Fine! Just make sure that you really listen to me."
While Sonata quickly starts chowing down on her pizza, Aria as patient and wise enough to not do two things at once. When Adagio could see that both of them are still having their eyes on her, she continues onto her announcement.
"Recently, I have made an important revelation."
"Ok, and what's that?" Aria sarcastically asked.
"We're... Unpopular."
There was an awkward moment of silence. Both Aria and Sonata looks surprised and confused while Adagio remained straight faced.
Aria remarks: "Really!? You only discover that now?"
Even Sonata adds: "Yeah! Even I know about that."
"You two don't understand!" Adagio angrily responded. "We've been to this school for months now and nobody has even warmed up to us yet. Look!" She then points towards a pair of students on the other side of the room who was sitting together. "Word has it that those two were fierce rivals before they patch things up last week. Before that, a jock was having a spat with his nerdy tutor and I've just heard that they just got their issues sorted. This school is a haven of forgiving saps who can't hold a grudge for more than two seconds."
"And your point?"
"MY POINT is that if this school is so forgiving, why hasn't anybody invited to any social events?"
Despite how much that they don't want to think about it, Sonata and Aria could see that Adagio has a point. Even though they didn't really care much about other people, they do want to be included to parties and certain events and beginning to get annoyed with all the cold treatment from everybody. They hate to admit it but... they're jealous.
But after some short self-reflection, Aria asks: "Ok, so what are we suppose to do about it?"
After a deep sigh, Adagio explains: "Well, if we still had our voices, I would have said we hypnotize everyone to do what we want and be our loyal slaves. However, since we all know what happened to them..."
"Why do you have to remind us?"
"... All we can do now is try to insert ourselves into a few events and trick people that we changed."
Aria was underwhelmed with that idea and think that is what they have been doing for some time. Sonata on the other hand like the idea and say after finishing her pizza: "Hey yeah! That's not a half bad idea. Oh, do you know what we should have done!? We should have asked to be on that camping trip and..."
But before Sonata could finish her speech, Aria and Adagio both shot down her idea by loudly proclaiming: "NO!"
Sonata was startled. She thought that her idea wasn't half bad and it was the most appropriate thing that they should have done. However, Aria and Adagio has such a mean look that it was like they despise the very notion.
Sonata mumbles: "But... I just thought..."
But then Adagio explains: "There's no way we were going on that camping trip!"
"Yeah!" Aria added. "Not only did it have Sunset and those annoying "Rainbrooms" going, but there's no way you could get me to spend a week in a murky forest."
And then Adagio sarcastically states: "The only way we would have gone on that stupid camping trip is if there were "magical geodes" that would somehow restore our siren voices."
After all of that, Sonata could finally see why they didn't want to go on the camping trip now. However, she still nervously asks: "Ok... So how else are we gonna get people to like us?"
Once Adagio calm herself down, she menacingly replies: "Well, I might not have been part of the conversation, but I did hear that there's a party coming up and I think I know how we can be invited." She then makes a sideward glance and looks at the person that she was talking about.
Meanwhile, at another table in the cafeteria, another trio of high school girls was having lunch together and was having a much more pleasant time. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo and they call themselves "The Crusaders". These three girls who are close friends to one another and recently found the joy of helping others with their talents and life problems. Each girl was enjoying a delicious packed-lunch that their families have made them. They do have a slight desire for the cafeteria pizza, but they were content with eating their own lunch and they weren't going to over eat on their lunch.
But as they were eating their delectable sandwiches, a familiar voice call out to them.
"Hi, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo!"
The three Crusaders jumped when they heard their names called out and was pulled away from their eating. When they turn their heads towards the source of the voice, they became surprised to see it was Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon!
"Um... Hi Diamond Tiara" Apple Bloom greeted. "How are you doing?"
"Oh, nothing much" DT replied, acting shy and nervous about it.
If you were to see this meeting, you won't think much of it. However, if you have seen their interactions previously, you would be surprised to see the Crusaders and Diamond Tiara having a friendly conversation with one another. Before, Diamond Tiara was more of a bully who likes to lord her wealth and prestige over the Crusaders and take a dark satisfaction to belittling them. However, after a recent event about a class election, Silver Spoon abandoning her, and finding out that DT's mother was abusive towards her, The Crusaders saw Diamond Tiara differently and help her to get over her issue. And now, they are on much friendlier terms and Tiara is trying really hard to make amends to them.
Sweetie Belle asks: "So what brought you over here? Is everything going ok between you and your mom?"
"Yeah, everything is going ok, but that's not why I came over" Diamond Tiara replied.
Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo was surprised and was intrigued on what she's going to say.
And DT then explains: "Well, my birthday is coming up and I want to invite all three of you to my party!" She and Silver Spoon then present to them their invitations, pink envelopes with the Crusader's symbol on the cover.
All three girl was surprised by the kind invitation and they take their envelopes with amazement. Sweetie Belle exclaims: "Wow Diamond Tiara! That's really nice! You never invited us to one of your parties!"
And Silver Spoon explains: "I know, right! Before, she would only invite me to her birthday party. But now she's inviting the entire class and we're having it at her mansion!"
However, an embarrass Diamond Tiara tells her: "Shut-upI Mean! Stop talking about that Silver Spoon. I don't want to remember how I acted before."
"Oh! Sorry."
And with that, the three girls got a clear indication that Diamond Tiara is trying to change her ways and trying to improve herself. But aside from that, they all were eager to go to her party. No one has ever gone to Diamond Tiara's house before (aside from Silver Spoon) and they were always curious about what it was like.
DT then nervously asks: "So... Can I get your word that you can come?"
After sharing one quick look to one another, Scootaloo replies for all three of them: "Sure, we all like to come to your party!"
"That's Great!" Diamond Tiara happily proclaims. "Oh, by the way, you don't have to get me a present. All three of you helping me is rewarding enough.................... BUT, if you were to give me a present, can you get me one of Rarity's amazing dresses, an awesome new bike, and Chestnut Magnifico's Autograph!"
"Um, Tiara!" Silver Spoon called out.
After regaining her senses, DT quickly says: "Oops, Sorry! Just... please come."
"Ok, we will" Apple Bloom replied.
After one satisfying smile, Diamond Tiara left with Silver Spoon while filled with glee. The Crusaders then sat on their table, ecstatic to being invited.
"Wow!" Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Who would have thought that we'd be going to Diamond Tiara's party!"
"I know, right!?" Sweetie Belle replied. "Who'd knew that making amends with a bully can be so rewarding.
And as Scootaloo was opening her envelope, she says: "And who knows! If the date isn't that far away, then maybe we could..." However, as soon as she lay eyes on the invitation, her mood and expression changed. "Oh..."
As the rest of the Crusaders were also checking their invite letters, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon cheerfully leave the cafeteria. Their bodies were overflowing with glee and excitement and could not contain it. They just couldn't wait for DT's birthday party now.
However, as soon as they turn around a corner, they bump into a certain trio that left them surprised. "You!" Diamond Tiara muttered.
Adagio, with Aria and Sonata behind her, greets: "Hey girls, how are you doing?"
Both Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon instantly because cautious and fearful. They don't know what the Dazzlings want but they are assuming that it is something dreadful. "What do you three want?" DT asked aggressively.
Keeping in her cool composure, Adagio replies: "Well, we've heard that someone's birthday is coming up and we've come to congratulate you."
"Yeah Right!" Silver Spoon says back. "I'm betting you just want to squirm into Diamond Tiara party and going to cause trouble!"
"What! Where do you get such idea!?" Adagio responded.
And Sonata then adds: "Yeah! We're just doing it to get popu..." But before she could finish, Aria quickly cover her mouth and shut her up.
However, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon could still figure out what she was going to say. She (was about to) say that they want to get popular and it causes the two girls to raise their eyebrows.
Seeing that they are getting suspicious, Adagio tells them: "Anyway, as I was saying. To commemorate such a special occasion, we'd be happy to give a musical performance and sing at your birthday party."
"What!" Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara yelled.
"What!" Aria and Sonata yelled too.
Before Diamond Tiara could respond, Aria quickly pulled Adagio aside and angrily whispers to her: "Are you insane!? Our singing voices haven't been fully restored yet and you expect us to sing at this little kid's birthday party?"
Brushing Aria's hands aside, Adagio replies: "Look, there's nothing to worry about. Our voices are slowly coming back and if they aren't fixed in time, we can always lip sync."
"That's your response for everything" Aria responded. "You don't feel the least bit ashamed that we aren't actually singing?"
"No, I'm not" she replied. "It's the only thing we got to make a living and to get people to stop hating us."
Sonata, wanting to be a part of the conversation, adds: "Honestly, I would do anything if I could get a taste of some birthday cake." Aria and Adagio swiftly ignore her.
And then, as soon as they had their little conversation, the Dazzlings suddenly hear Diamond Tiara says: "Ah I See! Now we know what you want." But when they turn back around towards her, DT tells them: "But my answer is no. There's no way I'm letting you three sing at my birthday party!"
Shocked, Adagio angrily asks: "What! Why Not!"
Silver Spoon explains: "All three of you are creeps and you haven't done anything good for the school since you got here!"
But then Sonata then argues: "But what about the Friendship Games? Didn't we compete in that for Canterlot?"
"Yeah, you did... But you were a bunch of losers in the spelling bee and made us lose in the first round!"
Adagio then yells: "Hey! Take that back you little... "
However, even though she looks frustrated and intimidating, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon was not scared. They know that they're powerless without their powers and they can't do anything physical to them without getting in trouble themselves. But as they give smug grins towards them, all of them heard a soft voice from behind them.
"Hey, Diamond Tiara?"
DT and Silver Spoon turn around and all of them saw who it was.
"Am I interrupting something?" Scootaloo asked DT.
DT, Silver Spoon, and the Dazzling were all surprised to see Scootaloo and wasn't expecting to see her. Adagio wanted her to go away so she could continue "negotiating" with Diamond Tiara. However, Diamond Tiara replies:
"Nah, you weren't interrupting anything important."
Infuriated even more, Adagio growls: "Why you little..." Fortunately, Aria and Sonata hold her back.
Anyway, DT happily asks Scootaloo: "So, what do you want to talk about?"
However, Scootaloo was feeling the same emotions as Diamond Tiara. In fact, Scootaloo looks more awkward and saddened and everyone notice this. Eventually, Scootaloo says to her: "Actually Diamond Tiara, about your party... I can't come, sorry."
"What!" Diamond Tiara yelled. "Why not?"
Everyone's eyes were on Scootaloo as she explains: "Well you see, my birthday is actually on the same day as your birthday and I can't simply be absent from mine."
Diamond Tiara was in a flurry of emotions. Happy for Scootaloo since it's her birthday, amazed that they both share the same date, and sad that she can't attend. Sadness eventually won through and DT asks: "Well... can't you move your party to a different date and still come to mine?"
But Scootaloo replies: "I wish I could but I can't. I have family coming over and they can't reschedule their visit."
Saddened even more, DT mutters: "Oh... ok then."
But Scootaloo then adds: "Well you don't have to worry about Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. I told them that they don't have to come to mine if they want to go to yours. However, it's still their decision to make."
"We hope that you have a nice time at your party" Silver Spoon added.
"Oh Yeah, Totally!" Scootaloo replied. "It might not be as luxurious as what your party is going to be, but it still gonna be pretty sweet."
But then, as Scootaloo was about to go over the events that are going to happen in her party, Adagio suddenly got an idea. It's not the best idea and it's not something that she particularly likes, but after being refused by Diamond Tiara, she wants to do anything to spite her.
Scootaloo lists: "There is going to be party games, trivia about Rainbow Dash, my uncle gonna tell his awesome jokes..."
"And we're going to be performing there!" said Adagio, spontaneously appearing and wrapping her arm around Scootaloo.
All the teens have gathered by Lake Everfree. Practically all of them was wearing swimming shorts and outfits and all were gearing up for a splash. And who would blame them? Their town isn't near any beach fronts and the public swimming pools charge a hefty price for you to swim in them (because they are run by the Flim Flam Brothers). Anyway, it was a warm day, the lake looks clean and beautiful, and everybody is ready for a swim.
And then, as the campers were at the peak of excitement, Gloriosa arrived in a lifeguard's uniform.
"Alright, Campers! Are you ready for a Splash!?"
In unison, all the campers cheered yelled out their eagerness. Rainbow Dash even went so far as to yell: "That's One Of The Reasons Why We Came Here!!"
"Righty-O! Not let's form one single line and..."
However, the campers all completely ignored here and charge towards the lake before she could finish. They all run onto the dock and began diving off of it one by one. Each one caused a fair size splash and all quickly began swimming around. Even Spike, following his doggy instincts, was right being the excitement and jump into the water. They all felt cold at first, but they all expected that since they are jumping into lake water. And while Gloriosa was annoyed that she didn't finish giving out her instructions, she just smiles and is happy that everybody is having fun.
However, not everybody had dived into the lake just yet. There were a couple of campers who either waited first to put sunscreen on and such... or had unexpected delays.
"Starlight!" Trixie shouted while in the lake. "Hurry up and get in the water already!"
But Starlight replies: "One Minute, Trixie!" Behind her, Starlight notice that Twilight and her friends were looking annoyed and looking towards the tents. Curious, Starlight approached them and ask: "Is everything alright?"
Noticing her, Rainbow answers: "Yeah. We just waiting a couple of friends of ours."
"RARITY! SUNSET! HURRY UP AND GET OUT HER ALL READY!" Applejack yelled in frustration.
Over by where Applejack shouted towards was Sunset Shimmer and Rarity who was taking an increasingly long time to get out of their tents. They can understand why Rarity is being late. She often glamorizes herself and spends too much time on choosing the right outfit. However, Sunset being late is something new for them. Eventually, both Rarity and Sunset left their tents (both wearing stunning swimming outfits on) and slowly making their way to the others.
"I don't know about this Rarity. I know you guys say that there's nothing abnormal in this forest, but don't you think there are dangerous creatures swimming in the lake?"
"Oh heavens, no darling. There aren't any monsters swimming around in any lakes. The only "creature" that you might find is Nessie and she's harmless."
"Who's "Nessie?""
"Oh, she's just a pre-historic dinosaur that all myth hunters are trying to find, but they never do. *wink*"
Rarity was trying to tell Sunset a joke to help calm her nerves. However, Sunset totally believed her "gulped" in fear. Eventually, both of them made it to their friends who were on the edge of their patience.
"Finally you guys made it" Rainbow Dash exclaims.
"Sorry" Sunset apologized.
"Well, I'm not," Rarity remarked. "Ok, I am, but it takes time to look This fabulous."
Curiously, Sunset asks them: "Why did you wait for us and not just jump in by yourselves."
And Rainbow Dash swiftly answers: "Because I want all of us to make one massive splash together and show everyone how awesome our friendship is."
Everyone had mixed opinions but ultimately support Dash's plan. They see themselves as the best of friends and doing bonding activities together like this always leave them with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. This is best pointed out by Fluttershy who says:
"Yeah, you always feel warm when you dive into cold waters if you had friends by your side jumping along with you."
"See, that's what I'm talking about" Rainbow Dash responded. A few of them roll their eyes but they all line up and go into the "ready-to-sprint position". Noticing that Starlight was still there and watching them, Rainbow calls out to her: "Hey, Starlight! Would you mind giving us a countdown?"
Starlight shrugs and replies: "Sure. Why Not?" (much to Trixie's annoyance).
Starlight moves towards the side and raises her hand in the air. Dash and the others were focusing on the dark and planning to jump off it just like the other campers. Some were worried about not bumping into one another and try to spread themselves apart to give around their space. Once she could see that they were ready, Starlight Glimmer began the count off.
"Ok! 3... 2... 1... Go!" "BOOM!"
A loud sonic boom suddenly erupted and Twilight and her friends were blown away in all directions. A rainbow streak shot out from the group, flies over the docks and shot out to the lake. The old, experienced docks were ripped asunder and massive waves pushed all the campers who were in the lake away. Barely anybody could comprehend what has happened. Even the people who did manage to see the rainbow streak saw it so fast that it was like a blur to them.
All the campers, and dog, quickly get up for air and Twilight and her friends were busy picking themselves up from the ground. The only people who weren't affected was Starlight Glimmer and Gloriosa because they were far enough away. But even then, they were petrified and shocked on this confusing incident. And then, out from the main hall, Celestia and Luna arrived with Timber with extra towels and swimming gear and expecting everybody was having fun. But once they arrive, they saw everybody in a shocked state and the docks are completely in pieces.
"What Happened Here!?" Celestia yelled in complete surprise.
Regaining her senses, Starlight Glimmer quickly replies: "I D-Don't Know! I-I was just here, counting down for Rainbow and her friends until... An Actual Rainbow Shot Out And-And-And..."
"Oh Noo! It's The Everfree!" Sunset interrupted. "This Place IS Abnormal and is filled with dangerous creatures that are out to get us!"
When Starlight said that, fear began to spread and talk of panic was commencing between the campers. But while the panic levels were increasing, the teachers and camp counselors keep their cool and try to be an example for everybody.
"Ok Everyone, settle down!" Luna cries out.
Gloriosa then follows up by saying: "I'm pretty sure there's a pretty good explanation for all of this."
But Starlight quickly asks: "Like What!?"
Glori' scrambles for an answer. "Well uh... Maybe it was the wind? Yeah, that's it. A powerful gust of wind must have flown by and blown everybody away."
Starlight wants to say that seems unlikely, but she was too dumbstruck and confused on any other possibilities. But regardless of that, Twilight and the other got up without too much hassle and Twilight remarks out loud: "Well, whatever that was, it also did a number on the dock".
Everyone then looks towards the docks... or at least it's shattered remains. The floor boards, the wooden stumps, the old and rusted nails. All of it was in pieces and floating in the water.
"Oh dear" Gloriosa exclaimed. "Ok, Everyone! Please get out of the water and mind the floating debris."
All the campers started moaning in disappointment. One by one, each of them slowly gets out of the water while also minding the sharp floating debris. Once all of them were out, Gloriosa apologetically explains: "I'm sorry everyone. You can have another swimming time later as soon as we clear up all this sharp debris."
Some of the campers kind of understood while other were thinking it was over the top. But while everyone was grumpy, Luna worryingly asks: "But Gloriosa, what about the docks? It'll be a safety hazard we leave it like this"
Gloriosa regretfully replies: "You're right. But... well... don't really have the money to completely fix it."
"What did you...?"
"But don't worry! I Got This!"
Gloriosa put on a confident and happy smile and try to put everyone at ease. However, nearly all of them could tell that it was a facade and she was just putting up a front. But then, Timber suddenly says: "But you know, I think we know somebody who can help."
Confused, Glori' asks: "Who?" She then looks at Timber who has a smug look on his face. "No! You don't mean..."
"Yeah, why not we just call..."
But before Timber could say the person he was one about, Gloriosa aggressively interrupts him. "NO!" she yelled. "There's no way we're calling Filthy Rich for help!"
"You called?"
Everyone jumped when they heard a completely new voice from somewhere behind them. They all turn around and saw a suave business man looking at them. The dude had dark-ish skin, slick back hair, and a confident grin on his face. And to show that he's rich; he also has a badge of three money bags attached to his opened blazer and a dollar-sign($) at the end of his red tie. Most of the students/campers were confused on who this person is. But for some of them, the teachers, and Gloriosa especially, they quickly recognize.
With a fake happy face, Gloriosa says to the man: "Hehehe! Filthy Rich... What are you doing here!?"
Celestia follows up by asking: "Yes Mr. Rich. It's very odd to see you here during our school camping trip?"
When Mr. Rich saw Canterlot High's school principal, he happily says: "Oh, Principals Celestia and Luna! What a pleasant surprise! Is it the annual Canterlot Camping Trip already?"
"Um... Yes, it is."
"Well, isn't this a happy coincidence. I'm just here too..."
But just like Timber, Gloriosa interrupts Filthy Rich and says: "Oh he's just here to see the old stomping grounds because he's an old alumnus of Camp Everfree. Right?"
Upon noticing her desperate expression, Mr. Rich rolls her eyes and compliantly says: "Sure, Daisy. Whatever you say." But as soon as Glori' calmed down a little bit and step away from him, Filthy Rich then adds: "But I could see that you have a bit of a problem on your hands."
Before Gloriosa could react, Timber Spruce quickly reply to him: "We sure do, Mr. Rich. We find ourselves with a damaged dock and we can't have our other lake activities if we don't get it fixed."
And then, as soon as he says that, some of the campers began moaning in disappointment. Upon seeing the saddened campers, Mr. Rich quickly announces: "Don't worry everyone! I have the money and resources to not only fix it right up, but I can make it as good as new!"
When he said his bold declaration, all the campers were ecstatic. It was like the dark, depressing clouds that were about to rain on their good time have been blown away by Filthy Rich's good fortune. But as the camper was cheering in celebration and joy, Gloriosa and even Twilight and her friends notice Mr. Rich whispering to himself:
"And maybe while I'm at it, I'll fix the rest of this place to be a 5-star resort."
For Twilight and the others, they weren't so sure about what he meant. But for Gloriosa, this means bad news for her. As the others had finished cheering, Glori' softly insert herself and says to Mr. Rich: "Well, that's a nice offer Mr. Rich, but that won't be necessary."
Everyone was somewhat shocked and perplexed by Gloriosa's refusal. Timber even went up to her and whisper to her: "But Gloriosa, how are we suppose to fix up the dock?"
Filthy Rich, overheard Timber's whisper, also asks: "Yes, Miss. Daisy? How will you be fixing your docks?"
Gloriosa begins to stammer and didn't know what to say. She didn't want to accept Filthy Rich's help, but she also doesn't have the manpower or expertise to do the repair. But as she was thinking up a solution, Principal Celestia then came with an idea for her.
"Oh! What about the Camp Gift?"
All the teenage campers confused and intrigued by this "Camp Gift" that their principal mentioned. However, Glori' just happily says out loud: "Ah! The Camp Gift! Why did I forget about that?"
Curious, Twilight ask Celestia: "Principal Celestia, what is the "Camp Gift?"
Seeing that she got her student's attention, Celestia explains: "Oh, it just an old camp tradition that Camp Everfree tend to do."
Gloriosa then explains in greater detail: "Basically, each generation of campers build and leave behind something for Camp Everfree so future generations of campers could enjoy. We had campers that made totem poles, boats, the gazebo that we used earlier."
And Celestia then quickly adds: "In fact, that sundial over there was something that me a luna made when we were your age."
But Vice-Principal Luna then remarks: "Yes, but I also remember saying that sundials are pretty ineffective at night."
But then Discord yelled out from across the camp: "Oh Give It Up Luna! Nobody is as Obsess Over The Night As You Do!"
Everyone was confused, yet slightly amused, by Luna's and Discord's back-and-forth. However, their attention went back towards Gloriosa when Mr. Rich asks her: "Are you honestly asking these modern, teenage high school students to help you rebuild the docks?"
"Well... I'm not asking all of you to do it. But... fixing these docks would be a great appreciation towards the camp and it would help future campers in the... future."
Gloriosa's desperation was too big for her to hide. She was banking(begging) on the Canterlot students to help out and not let Filthy Rich have his way. But unfortunately, almost all of them have little to no desire to do so. Most of them feel uneducated to rebuild the docks, don't see why they shouldn't let Filthy Rich do it, and generally don't feel that motivated to do it. They wanted a week to escape from the hard work and just relax and have fun camping.
However, not everybody was feeling that way. Twilight, Sunset, Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy feel sorry and pity towards Gloriosa. They haven't yet known her motivations to be against Filthy Rich but could tell that there's something going on between the two and neither of them is divulging. And then, when it seemed like nobody else would speak up to the camp counselor's silent request, Applejack look at the tattered remains of the lake docks and says:
"You know what, I don't think it's goin' to be that hard."
Everyone's eyes were on Applejack as AJ's words caught them by surprise.
"Just a few wooden beams here, floor board there... Heck, it'll probably easier than the time where I had to fix my barn after the rainstorm!"
For Filthy Rich and the Everfree counselors, they were amazed that one of the teenagers actually spoke up and voice their willingness to help. But for everybody who knows Applejack, they already know that she's a hard worker. But then, Rarity then got up beside AJ and says: "And you know, if you were to give it the "Rarity Touch", it would look way better than it had before."
Twilight then adds: "And designing plans for a dock is way easier than anything Crystal Prep usually makes. This might actually be a piece of cake for us."
"Did Somebody Say Cake!" Pinkie jokingly yells out.
And with Fluttershy and Sunset Shimmer silently following behind them, Gloriosa could see that she has 6 volunteers who were willing to help her. Meanwhile, Celestia was left proud of them, Starlight was amazed, Timber was left surprised, and Filthy Rich was amused.
"Alright Gloriosa, I'll let you do it your way. I'll be back in a few days time, see how you all are doing, and hopefully see if we can discuss some important matters. See you then!"
And with that, Mr. Rich began to leave. He was heading towards his parked limousine and getting ready to leave the Everfree Forest for the time being. However, as he was still walking away, Timber try to chase after Mr. Rich.
"Mr. Rich! Wait! Don't You Wanted To Discuss..."
However, Glori's quickly pulled Timber back before he could grab Filthy's Rich's notice.
"Ah, Ah, Ah Timber. Mr. Rich is a really important man and we shouldn't annoy him."
"Really?" Timber angrily whispers. "Even though he's the only one who can..."
"Shush You! We can't let the other know about the predicament we're in. Just let them have their Camp Everfree experience and don't get them worried about us, ok?"
As Timber pull his arm away from his sister, he then finally whispers: "Fine, but you pulled them in already."
"HEY! WHO'S THAT IN THE WATER!"
Both Timber Spruce and Gloriosa jumped when they heard (Pinkie) scream. Everyone then looks towards the water and see... Rainbow Dash slowly getting out onto the shore! She looks extremely tired appears that she has done a lot of swimming just to get back to everyone. Worried for their friend, Twilight and the others rushes to her aid.
Shocked, Rarity says loudly: "Rainbow Dash! What were you doing in the water!?"
But then Sunset asks: "Wait... When did you get into the water in the first place?"
"I Don't Know!" Rainbow yelled to them. As soon as she caught her breath, Dash explains to them: "One minute, I was running after Starlight did her countdown. And in the next minute, I was somehow dropped in the middle of the lake."
"How strange?" Twilight commented.
However, as Twilight thinking about the mystery of how she got to the middle of the lake, she notices the rainbow color in Dash's hair. This caused Twilight to remember the rainbow streak that burst out between them and caused this mess and have a sinking suspicion that the two mysteries are strongly connected.
But then, Twilight spotted Starlight and Trixie next to her and she heard Starlight say: "Strange indeed? It was like... she somehow "magically teleported" into the lake."
Every one of them froze as soon as Starlight mentioned the word "magic". They probably know that she doesn't know what they know and just looking for an adjective, but she still left them quite surprised.
Trixie says to Starlight: "Magic!? W-what makes you say that?"
"I don't know" she replied. "Just that it seems really impossible and "magic" is just the word that I would describe it."
But then, Trixie put on her haughty persona and tells her friend: ""Magic"? Please. The Great and Powerful Trixie can show you what magic really looks like!"Starlight was still really suspicious about the strange occurrences that were happening around her and then she notices Twilight and her friends were giving her frighten expressions. However, Trixie soon began dragging her away and says: "Come and let me show you?"
Reluctantly, Starlight says: "Fine Trixie."
As Trixie was pulling Starlight, Twilight and her friends are thinking that they might tell Starlight about their secret sooner than what they wanted.
A little while later after swimming was disappointingly canceled, the rest of the camper split up and went off to do other camp activities. However, for Twilight and her band of friends, they were allowed to be absent on those activities so they can sort out fixing the docks. Rainbow Dash was confused at first on why they are doing it (since she was in the middle of the lake for when it happened). But once they gave her the rundown, Dash didn't mind joining them.
On a nearby park table over by the shore, Twilight pulled and lay out a large blueprint on the table for her friends to see. "Ok, this is what I quickly drew up" Twilight explained. As Dash and the others look at the blueprint, they quickly got overwhelmed by the amount of detail that Twilight put into it. The type of materials they need, the length and measurement that each one needs to be in, and even the type of tools that they need to do all of it. For Applejack (and maybe even Rarity), this wasn't too worrying for her. But for the others...
"Wow, Twilight. That sure is a lot" Fluttershy commented.
And Pinkie then adds: "Yeah! and you like draw all of this in 5 minutes."
Flattered, Twilight response to them was: "Well, schematic drawings and blueprint designs were common requirements back at Crystal Prep."
But as she was looking over the blueprint, a certain question comes to Rainbow's mind. "Yeah, well, this looks mighty impressive Twilight, but how long will all of this take?"
"Well... that's the bad part" Twilight answered, making everyone to become worried. She pulled out a calculator and do some math. "If we go at the pace that I think we will go, we just might be able to finish before the end of camp."
"Well that isn't so bad" Rarity responded.
"But... that is only if we exclude ourselves from all camp activities and work solely on the docks. If we take shifts or do some of our camp stuff, then we probably have to stay behind and work on it after camp has finished."
After Twilight gave the full explanation, her friends quickly became disheartened. They are willing to help rebuild the docks, but most of them aren't willing to give up the free time that they have while they are at camp. "Is there any way that we can make it quicker and not have to give up our camp time?" Fluttershy asked.
Seeing the conflicting faces of her friends, Twilight took a closer look at her blueprints. "Well, I suppose I can downsize my 'prints and it would shorten our workload, but that would mean the docks would be pretty tiny and bare bones."
"Did somebody say bones?" Spike barked by his owner's as he heard a word to catch his attention.
As Twilight gave Spike a pet to calm him down, Applejack says out loud: "I guess that could be an option, but aren't we suppose to make an impression? Not only is this to be our camp gift, but this is also something to help Gloriosa."
But then, while the topic was on Gloriosa, Sunset chimes in and says: "Well don't any of you find it strange that Gloriosa is refusing help from Filthy Rich?"
Rainbow Dash shrugs and answers: "Maybe Filthy is trying to buy out the camp somehow and she's trying to stop him in any way that she can?"
"And why would that be a bad thing then?" Sunset added.
"Maybe she just doesn't want to give up the camp?" Pinkie responded.
Seeing that they are going off track, Twilight grab all of her friend's attention and says: "Regardless, unless we have more people helping us out, I see no other way to make this go quicker?"
But then, as the girls try to come up with other ways to speed up their work, they suddenly heard a (male) voice from behind them.
"I suppose that you want your help then?"
All of them jumped and they quickly recognize the voice. They all turn around and saw both Flash Sentry and Timber Spruce standing and waving.
"Oh no," Twilight moaned in her head. Not wanting to be rude, Twilight put on a smile and says: "Flash! Timber! What a pleasant surprised. You say... you want to help us?"
Flash was first to reply but was just as nervous. "Well, w-we uh... w-we saw you all working from afar and... We Weren't Stalking Or Anything! We just..."
Annoyed that Flash was taking his time, Timber swiftly explains: "We just wanted to see if you want any help?" Flash was annoyed at Timber for cutting him off... but he could understand why.
Twilight was adamant and hesitant about letting both Timber and Flash helping them. She can slightly sense that they were pinning for her attention and think this would be their way to get her to like them. Not that she doesn't like them or anything, it just that she doesn't want to have boy troubles at the moment. But before Twilight could say anything, Applejack appeared beside her and rest her arm on her shoulder.
"Sure! We could really need a few extra hands!"
"Great!" Timber exclaimed. "It very fortunate that you have me since I'm the only guy in camp who knows his way around with an ax and the one who usually collects the wood."
Seeing Timber was giving Twilight looks and feeling incredibly jealous, Flash quickly inserted between the two and says: "Well it's also a good thing that I know a thing or two about stage construction. Because, well, I'm a rock star and I know my way around..."
But Twilight, annoyed at both Flash and Timber, shout at both boys: "Can You Two Cut It Out!"
The scene was completely quiet. Both Flash and Timber froze with fright and surprise as they look at a very frustrated Twilight Sparkle. And they weren't the only the ones who were quiet. Twilight's voice was so loud, everybody (including the animals) in camp momentarily stopped what they were doing and look towards the commotion.
After taking a deep breath, Twilight calmly says to the boys: "Can you... just collect the wood and we figure out what we do from there."
Frighten and not wanting to occur her wrath, they quickly capitulate with her request. "Yeah, Totally!" "We'll get right on it!"
But as Flash and Timber was about to head off in the woods, Timber quickly stop tell all of them: "Also, don't forget that campfire tales is this afternoon."
Upon hearing the word "campfire", Pinkie became excited and asks: "Oh, Can We Bring Smores!"
"Um... Sure?"
As Pinkie began shaking with anticipation, the boys finally head off. As they were walking away, they make quick glances towards Twilight and they see that she still trying to calm down while her friends comfort her.
"Man, she gets pretty mad" Timber commented towards Flash.
"Yeah" Flash replied. "The only other time I saw her this upset was when I was mind controlled by these three sirens and cause me to be angry and stuff."
"What!?"
"Long story."
While Timber was momentarily perplexed, he notices Flash was staring of longingly in the distance. He had a sad, almost melancholy look on his face as it seems an issue was growing in his mind. Taking a leap, Timber tries talking to him.
"So... I'm guessing you guys are close or something?"
Hearing the question, Flash hesitantly replies: "Well... it's complicated. We are... but at the same time, we're not... We tried making it work but..."
"Let me guess; bad first date?"
After groaning and rubbing his forehead, Flash says: "You hit the nail on the dartboard."
At that moment, Timber was beginning to feel sad and pity for Flash. He could tell that he and Twilight have a history together and having difficulty in starting a relationship together. Despite how much we want to her for himself, Timber had to admit that Twilight can see through his act and that Flash has a better chance than he does.
"Say..."
"Hm?"
"-How about, while we are working together, that..."
"Yes?"
"... That I might give you some relationship advice."
Shocked, Flash responded by saying: "What! Would really do that for me!?"
But then, trying to act tough and suave, Timber then adds: "But only if you can get more wood than me."
Flash was surprised that Timber decided to be coy with him now even after he said he would help him. However, either because he felt a kindred spirit towards him or that he doesn't want to lose Twilight to him, he felt motivated for the challenge. "You're On!" he said confidently.
Hours pass and the sun of the first day of camp had set. Twilight and friends lay down the groundwork for them to continue into tomorrow, but they still fairways to go if they want to finish it. But regardless, they've made a fair start and took part in the evening activities.
On the edge of the camp ground's, where the tall Everfree trees sitting right behind them, was a circle of campers/students who were sitting on logs and around the campfire. Twilight and the others were sitting side by side of each other and listening to Timber Spruce's "scary" story of Gaia Everfree. Meanwhile, Starlight, Trixie, Flash and other campers were also with them and Luna was watching over them as a supervisor.
"One pitch black night, when the wind was howling, a tree branch crashed through the roof of their cabin!"
Timber was telling is a story in the scariest tone that he can make his voice at. Some were a little bit frightened by Timber's story, others are left amused by his performance, while someone else (Pinkie) was too busy cooking up marshmallows for everyone. However, none were more scared than Sunset Shimmer. Every part of her was shaking at the scene and clinging onto Twilight for dear life. Twilight didn't mind it so much... but she was cutting off circulation to her arm.
"They ran outside their cabin and saw a creature emerging from the forest!"
"Aaaww!" Sunset moaned in fear.
"She had wild hair like the roots of a tree. Her mouth had jagged rock teeth and her eyes were pools of black tar. But her aura shimmered like diamonds. Anywhere she went, she left a trail of gem dust in her wake!"
Sunset made a massive gulp.
"Frightened, my great-grandparents asked who she was and what she wanted. In a deep and hollow voice, she told them that her name was Gaea Everfree! – an ancient spirit who held domain over the forest, and that my great-grandparents were trespassing on her land."
"Ouch! Sunset!" Twilight angrily whispered.
"They begged her to let them stay and let them build their camp, to share this wonderful place with anybody who may come. After thinking long and hard, Gaea Everfree agreed and let them go..."
At that moment, upon hearing that Gaea Everfree did no harm, Sunset felt sort of relieved and finally feel herself relaxing (much to Twilight's pleasure).
But then Timber added: "But!-", which frighten Sunset again. "- She warned them that they would not be able to keep it forever. Someday, she will return and reclaim the forest as her own." As Sunset begin to shudder excessively again, Timber finished off his story by saying: " So if you see a trail of gem dust, you'll know that it is..."
But before Timber could finish speaking, somebody in the circle spontaneously sneezed.
"Achoo!"
"GAEA EVERFREE!!!" Sunset screamed at the top of her longs.
Everybody around the circle jumped and shook with fright and surprise when Sunset made her scream. They all look around, seeing if there was anybody who appeared from the darkness of the woods. However, there was no one (or no one else besides them). It was then where they all notice Fluttershy rubbing her nose and discovering that she had sneezed.
"Sorry," Fluttershy apologized, noticing that everybody was looking at her.
At that moment, everybody, including Sunset, calmed down. "Oh, thank goodness" Sunset happily sighed as she wipes some sweat off her forehead. But after she said that, she noticed her friends were looking understandably angry at her.
"Ok, Sunset..." Applejack announced. "I know you're scared of the Everfree Forest, but that was too over the top."
Rainbow Dash then says: "Yeah, because first of; Augh! You seriously hurt my eardrums!"
But then Twilight adds: "You think that's bad!? I was right next to her when she screamed."
"Sorry" apologized Sunset. "It just that... Gaea Everfree. If she's real, she could..."
"But She's Not!" Twilight moaned. "She's just something that Timber made up. Isn't that right, Timber?"
"I don't know" Timber replied, hoping to leave some ambiguity. However, when she saw how scared Sunset looks and how angry that Twilight appeared, he quickly sings a different tune. "No, right, I totally made it up. Sorry for scaring you."
Seeing things are getting a bit too tense, Luna stood up. "Perhaps we should tell a different story. Something that is "a little less scary" for people to handle."
Everyone around the campfire then buckled down and try to think of none scary stories to tell.
"Oh! I think I got a story to tell!" Rarity shouted.
"Is it about the girl with the burgundy dress?" Applejack asked in a (somewhat) annoyed tone."
"Noo..." Rarity replied, turning her eyes away and said a complete lie. After that moment, Rarity sat back down and refused to tell the story.
At that moment, Starlight looks around and saw how stumped everyone was looking. They were trying to remember/come up with stories that would be interesting to tell but won't scare Sunset. Starlight looked on in silence, pondering if she should tell the story that has emerged in her head. She thinks long and hard on what she wants to do.
Trixie then spoke out: "Well, I got a story that I'm sure you all will...
"I... I got a story to tell if you want to hear it?"
Everybody froze when she heard Starlight spoke out and interrupt Trixie's sentence. Realizing what she did, Starlight quickly says to her friend: "Oh! I'm sorry Trixie. I didn't mean to interrupt you."
But Trixie says: "No, that's alright. If it's your story, then I'm fine with that."
"Are you sure? It's not particularly scary or exciting or anything. In fact, it's actually kind of sad."
"Starlight, you don't have to tell it if you don't want to" Twilight explained. "But if you are willing to tell, we'd be very much interested to hear what you got."
"Really?"
"Yes! Go Ahead!" Pinkie shouted as she passes around freshly backed marshmallows to everyone.
Seeing everybody in the circle has their eyes fixed on her and waiting anxiously for her story, Starlight felt that she couldn't back out now. After one big breath to calm her nerves, she begins.
"Ok, it's all started back in my own town before I moved to Canterlot. It wasn't a particularly big town but it was a nice and everyone get along well enough."
Everyone listen quietly and with their full attention. They don't really know much about Starlight and hearing where she came from was a welcome piece of information.
But Starlight looked down and voice then went into a somber tone.
"And I... I knew this little girl. She was... an ordinary little girl that didn't particularly have any noteworthy talents, but she does have this one boy that she was really close with. I often saw them play together, eat together, and they look like they were the best of friends.
However, there was a problem. The boy that she was friends with was a born genius. He always gets top marks in his tests while the girl could only scrap up passing grades. I guess she felt so inadequate that she... she hired me to be her tutor. That's how I knew all this stuff."
As Starlight was telling her soft-spoken story, most of the other campers were on the edge of their seats. They didn't know where the story was going or wasn't sure how it would end. However, they could clearly sense the sadness that was emanating from Starlight's voice and her facial expression.
"But one day, something happened. The boy did so well on one of his tests that I think he got a perfect score. His parents and teachers were so impressed... they... send the boy away..."
"What!" Fluttershy softly reacted.
"Yep. They send him to some elite private school in the other town because they felt is genius would be wasted on a private little town like ours. And meanwhile... the girl was left behind."
Starlight stuttered, trying so hard to hold back the tears.
"No matter what she did, she couldn't follow him. She didn't have the grades, she didn't have any talent, and there was nothing she could do to enroll herself in the same private school as her friends. And thus... She lost her friend... and there was nothing that she could do."
Everyone was left speechless. None of them had heard such a sad story before. They have been overcome by so much sorrow and sympathy that even the toughest students started to shed some tears. Some have their own interpretations and theories of Starlight's tale as they felt that she wasn't being 100% honest with them. But regardless, they were just left speechless.
Breaking the silence, Flash ask her: "Wow, Starlight. Did that all really happened?"
"Yep" Starlight softly replied. But then she adds: "The girl wasn't totally alone, however. She still had her family and she still had her tutor, I mean me. It just took weeks to get over her sadness."
Wanting to be uplifting, Rarity tells Starlight: "Well, at least you were there to uplift her spirit."
"Thanks" Starlight smiled.
The scene went back into silence, but it was a peaceful silence. Everyone was in a state of calm joy as they all learned something about Starlight and Starlight gotten something off her chest. But in that joyful silence, rustling in the bushes began to be heard. They all thought it was the wind at first. But as the rustling began to louder, some of them was getting nervous and...
"ROAARRR!"
Before they knew, a large black bear sprouted out from the bushes and stood tall over the campers.
"AAAAAAAHHH!"
Everyone let out their scream and fall back in terror. Even Timber was scared of this unexpected surprise. However, despite how terrified everyone else, Luna was unfazed. In fact, she looked more annoyed than scared.
"Discord! Take Off That Rediculous Bear Costume!"
Everyone took a moment to process.
"Discord!!" shouted everybody.
"Awww! How did you know?" the bear replied, revealing that it was indeed Discord.
"This was the same prank that you pulled back when we were in camp."
Discord then take the bear head off and shake off the sweat that he accumulated inside of it. "Oh come on! It's Camp Everfree tradition. A bear always had to scare the kids after "Krago, The Mad Everfree Ursa Major" is told."
With a smug smirk, Luna tells him: "Krago wasn't told this time. It was "Gaea Everfree"."
"Gaea Everfree!?" Discord shouted.
After getting up from the floor, Timber explains: "Well, uh, I thought I would change things up and introduce a new scary story."
"But... Krago was always the story" Discord moaned in disappointment.
After seeing that the "bear" was just their wacky bus driver, all the students relaxed and felt at ease. In fact, once they all got up and stretch, they all started to yawn.
Seeing that everyone was getting tired, Luna announces: "Ok everyone, time to return to your tents. Get some sleep and prepare yourselves for a full day of fun tomorrow."
Following their Vice Principal's instructions, they all break off and head back to their tents. Most of them were chatting and talking about their thoughts and their near future events. But as everyone was walking, Starlight look towards Sunset. She could tell that she was still very much scared and constantly looking side to side for any danger. Wanting to help, Starlight walk towards her.
"Hey, I hope you aren't too shaken up over that bear prank."
Sunset jumped at first but soon realize it was Starlight. "Oh, Starlight! Um, yeah, that was a bit shocking, but at least it wasn't a real Ursa Major."
"Reall!? Wait, what's an Ursa Major?"
"A bear that is 50 feet tall and a body of a night sky."
Starlight was so surprised and amazed by the explanation that she almost forget to speak. "Well, uh... Ok then. I guess that is a good thing that a "real Ursa Major" did show up."
"I know, right!?"
Both Starlight and Sunset had a quick chuckle before they realize that they have returned back to the tent area and realize that they have to split up now.
"Well, I guess I see you tomorrow Sunset?"
"Yeah, you betcha" Sunset replied.
But before they part, Sunset had raised her hand for a friendly fist bump. Wanting to be polite, Starlight reciprocates the act of friends and bump fists with Sunset.
"Sunburst! Don't Go!"
"Wha!"
Sunset stumbled backward, surprised of a loud voice that rang out in her head. Starlight instantly tells that something was wrong. "Are you ok?" she asked concerningly.
Sunset was confused and didn't know what happened. But seeing Starlight worried expression, she felt a strong urge to dispell it. "No, I'm fine" Sunset replied.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, I'm fine. See you tomorrow."
"Um, ok then?"
The two girls then parted ways. Starlight was left worried and concerned for Sunset's well-being while Sunset tries to figure out what that weird voice was about.
And wondering why that voice sounded like a younger version of Starlight.
It was early in the morning and the sun was slowly lifting pass the horizon. The sky still has that dark tinge of blue and chilly air still filled the woods of the Everfree Forest. And it Camp Everfree, almost everyone is still vastly asleep inside their tents. The only people who were up this early was the school faculty (Celestia, Luna, and Discord), camp counselors (Gloriosa and Timber) and Applejack herself (due to a habit being woken up by a rooster back at her farm).
However, not everybody was sleeping soundly. In the peridot tent, Sunset Shimmer was shifting and turning inside her quilt covers and shake off the deep nightmare she was having.
"No... Go away... Uh... Leave my friends alone..."
Faint words escaped her mouth as Sunset dreams about dangerous monsters attacking her and her friends. Fear's firm grip holding onto her tightly as she tries her best to run away from them. But as the danger in her dream was getting closer and closer to her, the faster the rate of her waking up will be. Eventually, the nightmare got so great that Sunset shot up straight and let out her scream.
"AAAAHH!"
As Sunset emerges from her slumber, she took a moment to catch her breath. The eventual realization finally sinks in and come to discover that she has been dreaming the entire time. Something that her tent mate, Twilight Sparkle, is greatly displeased about.
"Mmm... Sunset... Shut-Up... Go back to sleep..."
As she heard Twilight rolling over, Sunset felt greatly ashamed of herself for disturbing her friend as she sleeps. "Sorry Twilight" she softly apologized.
As the moment come to pass and then tent was finally silent again, Sunset lay back onto her bed. Sunset was much of a morning person and prefers to get at the appropriate time. But as she was about to rest her eyes and fall back asleep, she noticed something strange.
"Hey, is the ceiling of the tent closer than usual?" Sunset asked out loud.
The peculiar question pulled her away from her slumber as Sunset felt the distance between her and the top of the tent was much closer then what she remembers. She sits back up and found that she could actually touch the top. Sunset was confused. But when she turned her head towards Twilight, she saw something shocking/amazing that it took her breath away.
"What the..." Sunset muttered, frighten to what she was seeing. She was so frightened, she was anxious to tell Twilight about it. But seeing that she was still asleep, Sunset was cautious about.
"Twilight..." she softly called out.
"Mmm no mmm..." Twilight growled, still very much asleep.
"Twilight" Sunset called out, this time a bit louder.
"Mmmmm! Go back to sleep..."
"Twilight!"
"I said go back to sleep!"
"TWILIGHT!"
"WHAT!" Twilight shouted, finally sitting up on her bed and looking (angrily) across to Sunset.
It was then that Twilight notice... everything in their tent was floating. Their clothes, their camping equipment, and even their beds that they were resting on. Even Spike was adrift in the air and was enjoying the zero gravity experience as he was chasing his tail. Everything also had a weird luminous glow to it... something that they magically recognize all too easily.
"WHAT'S GOING ON!?" Sunset cried out in panic.
Twilight replies: "I don't Knnooooow!
As she spoke, the magical glow that was suspending everything in the air suddenly disappeared and gravity finally reclaimed control. Everything feels back down to the ground giving both girls, even more, to be frightened about.
"AAAHH!" both Twilight and Sunset screamed.
But once everything (came crashing) down to the ground, everything seems relatively normal again. while the girls were still recoiling from the fall and everything that they've seen, they notice that nothing was broken and everything was in their relatively normal place. Even Spike landed safely on the bed and thinking the same thing that Sunset thought out loud.
"What was that!?"
Twilight got out of her bed and kick-start her brain. "I don't know" she replied. "But it seemed like... everything was being lifted up by magic."
"By Magic!" Sunset responded. "So... These Woods Are Enchanted."
To stop Sunset from having a panic attack, Twilight quickly got up to her and rest her hand on her shoulder. "I don't think it's the woods" she tells her. "Maybe... Maybe it's the magic that came from us and is leaking from us somehow?"
"From us? But I don't have a problem with magic spilling out while I sleep and I haven't heard anything from the others about it either?"
"Me neither. But..."
But before she could continue, Sunset and Twilight suddenly heard a voice a familiar voice from outside their tent's flap.
"Sunset!? Twilight!? Are You Two Alright!? I Heard a Scream!" the voice called, revealing it to be Principal Celesta.
"We're alright Principal Celestia!" Twilight yelled back.
"Are You Sure!?"
"Yeah!"
"Well, Ok Then! There's still a few hours left before you all suppose to get up. Feel free to get some more sleep if you still tired."
"Um, Thanks!" Sunset awkwardly replied.
They waited for a few moments for Celestia to move away from their tent. Once they were sure that Celestia was gone, Twilight turned back to Sunset and tells her: "Let's mention this to the others and get their thoughts on it."
Sunset was still frightful and worried. She still thinks that the Everfree was the cause of it and some sort of danger is looming over them. However, she still trusts Twilight and her friends and was willing to go along with her suggestion. "Sure" Sunset says to Twilight.
But then, as Twilight and Sunset was having a heartwarming moment, they soon notice Spike was on Sunset bed and jumping around and acted excited. The thinks: "Well if you don't solve it, can you at least make things floaty again. I think I had a real chance to catch my tail this time." Both Twilight and Sunset look at him with confusion.
Later, once everyone was up and awake, all the campers were standing around and mingling, waiting for their 2nd day of camp activities to start. Twilight and Sunset, fully dressed, was busy looking around for the rest of her friends and tell them what happened.
"Do you see them yet, Twilight" Sunset asked worryingly.
"No" Twilight unfortunately replied.
The two best friends were scanning the area, hoping to find Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, or...
"Wait! I see Pinkie Pie and Rarity!" Sunset suddenly called out.
Twilight jolted around and saw Pinkie Pie and Rarity. Eager to tell them about their weird morning discovery, both her and Sunset began moving their legs and fly towards them. And when they got close, Pinkie and Rarity were happy to see.
"Good morning Twilight! Good morning Sunset!" Rarity said cheerfully as they approach
In contrast, Pinkie loudly announces "MORNING TWI-SET!"
When they arrived, Sunset replies: "Hey guys. We got to... Wait! What did you call us?"
"Twi-set" Pinkie reiterate. "It's my own personal nickname for the two of you for when you both are together. Do you like it?"
Both Sunset and Twilight was left quietly perplexed. But after they shake off their confusion, they get to the point. Twilight asks them: "Have you seen the others around here?"
"No, I have not" Rarity replied disappointingly. However, Pinkie response was: "Oh, I have seen plenty of "others". But if you mean Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash, then they are just looking for what material we can use to fix the docks and should be back soon."
Curious, Rarity asks: "What is this about? Is something wrong?"
After stilling herself, Sunset says to them: "Well you see-"
But before she could say what she wanted, Starlight suddenly appears behind them and greets: "Hey guys!
All the girls jumped when they heard Starlight, with Sunset letting out loud "AH!"
"Sorry!" Starlight quickly apologized. "I forgot that you get easily startled."
"Um, that's ok Starlight" Sunset replied. "Is there something you want?"
"Well, I'm just curious if any of you have seen Trixie around here?"
After thinking about it, Twilight says to her: "No, me and Sunset haven't seen here?"
"Me and Pinkie haven't seen her either" Rarity added.
"Huh?" Starlight sounded. "I did hear her say that she'll meet me here, but I didn't actually "see" her say it."
"Hm?" Twilight replied, with her and her friends being just as confused as Starlight. "Maybe you just haven't found her yet?"
"I guess so."
But then, before anybody could say anything else, Gloriosa's voice shouted out towards the crowd. "OK! It's Time For Camp Activities!" And with that, everybody began to go towards and crowd around Gloriosa over by the gazebo. Starlight silently walks along too, hoping she could find Trixie along the way.
But then, in the moment where they are alone, Rarity asks Twilight and Sunset: "Ok, what's the thing you were trying to tell us."
Not wanting to be late with the others, Twilight and Sunset quickly whisper into Rarity's and Pinkie's. They told them what happened in their tent and how magic might be involved. Rarity was left gasped while Pinkie was amazed.
"Oh my!" said Rarity "Ooooh!" said Pinkie Pie.
And then, feeling that they were out of time, Twilight told them: "Let's discuss this later where we have everyone." Rarity and Pinkie silently agree (and Pinkie even did a comical salute).
Moments later, Twilight and her friends catch up with the other campers and they hear Gloriosa splitting up the group.
"Ok, Campers! Today, you got a full schedule of a bunch of fun activities you all can do!" Glori' stated, sounding (over) enthusiastic as she says it. "This morning; we got backing in the lunch hall, sailing over by the lake, and rock climbing over by the rock wall! Doesn't that sound like fun!?"
"YEAH!" the campers excitedly shouted.
"Ok, Then! We're gonna split everyone by tent assignments and then we rotate around once everyone had a turn. People in the ruby, sapphire and emerald tents go meet up with Timber and he'll teach how to use the boats. Pearl, amethyst and garnet tents will do some baking in the lunch hall with you school principals (but not actually "baking" with your school principals). Meanwhile, people in the peridot, jasper and lapis lazuli tents will follow me to the rock wall."
Everyone seemed pleased with the arrangements and happy to go along. And since Twilight and Sunset were in the peridot tent, they have realized that they got the rock climbing first. However, they were more concerned if any other other friends will be joining as they are anxious to warn them about the magic. As the other camper leaves for their activities, they only people that they could see was Rarity, Starlight, and a few other campers from their school (but neither of them was Rainbow, AJ or Fluttershy). Nevertheless, they decided to hold their worries for now and try to enjoy themselves for the time being.
Everyone soon follows Glori' to the rock wall. And when they arrive, they all was soon amazed by how large and how amazing the wall was. The climbing stones were in a wide array of colors and they all come all different shapes and sizes. The sides looked like tree trumps and you couldn't tell at a glance if they were just plastic or if they were made from real trees. And for the added touch of safety, lines and safety harnesses were looped and connected to the hooks on top and they were waiting for the campers to use.
Everyone was very much impressed and most of them were eager to climb. "Ok, everyone!" Gloriosa called out. "We only have three safety climbing harnesses so not everybody can climb up at once. So can everyone pair up with a partner and-"
However, before Gloriosa could finish, most of the campers dashed out from behind her and left her in a spin. "Whoa!" she cried out as she tries to regain her composure. Once she finally regained it, she saw that the campers were already examining the safety gear and seeing how it works. She even somewhat amazed by how quick that they got them. However, Glori' still feel like that she still teach them how to use.
"Well, it's good to see that you know how to use the safety gear. But, you still need a friend to hold the line for you and make sure that you don't fall."
Everyone soon got the hang of it and even follow Gloriosa's instructions. Meanwhile, Twilight, Sunset, Rarity, and Starlight were figuring it out at their own pace with little to no issue. They proper weren't the most excited about rock climbing, but there was still the ting of excitement to try it out.
But then, once everything was set up and campers were about to start climbing, a disappointed moan shot them from behind. "Aw Man! We're too late!" the moaning voice cried out.
Everyone was surprised by the sudden voice. However, the familiarity of the voice eases some of the surprised fears. They all turned around and saw Rainbow Dash and Applejack.
"Rainbow Dash! AJ!" Sunset cried out with excitement.
"Hey yall, sorry we're late" Applejack apologized. "We were just looking for stuff to fix the docks."
AJ's and Rainbow Dash's arrival was met with joyful surprise and welcoming smiles. Especially for Twilight and Sunset. But for the responsible camp director, she was kind of skeptical of their appearance. "Well girls, I'm glad you made it in time for camp activities, but we're assorted by camp assignment.
But then, Applejack replied to Glori': "Well, uh, I'm Rarity's tent mate so I think I'm in this group."
"Really?" Gloriosa replied skeptically. As she looks down at the roster on her clipboard, she says to AJ: "Well, we shall see about--" But as soon as she found Applejack's name, she quickly changes her tune and says: "Oh! Lookie Here! You are meant to be with us!"
Everyone was glad as this seemed like a little victory. But then, Rainbow tries to casually walk pass Gloriosa and nonchalantly exclaims: "Yep! Now let us get this rock climbing thing a-go..."
But before Rainbow could get pass her, Glori' had another check on the roster and stops her. "Ah-Ah-Ah!" she exclaims. "Applejack is meant to be here, but you are meant to be in baking over by the lunch hall."
"Aw, what!" Rainbow moaned. "But I wanted to..."
"Ah, no "buts" little missy. You will get you turn on the rock wall when it's your group's time to do so."
Rainbow Dash was devastated that she couldn't do the rock climbing as soon as she wanted. It didn't help matters that she could hear some of the other campers snickering to her misfortune. Even her friends were trying their best not to snicker. Feeling defeated, Dash huffs "Fine" to Gloriosa.
"Good" Glrori' replied. But then, as soon as everyone's back was turned, they all suddenly heard a "zoom" from behind them. They all look and saw no one was there (not even Rainbow Dash). Some of them were Confused... but decided to ignore it and try to start their activity.
As Applejack finally joins the group, she notices Rarity with the rope and sees that she's pretty nervous about it. She goes up to her and calmly tells her: "Don't worry Rarity. I can do the pulling while you just worry about climbing."
"Oh, thank you dearie" Rarity appreciatively replied.
But then, as Rarity was getting the harness on, AJ notice Starlight was left flabbergasted in the air. Intrigued and worried: she asks her: "Is something wrong?"
Realizing she was being asked, Starlight snapped out of her trance. "Huh!? Oh, uh... Is your rainbow-friend usually that fast?"
"Who; Rainbow? Uh... Yeah, she usually pretty quick. Why?"
To hide the fact that she saw Rainbow Dash ran away with super speed, Starlight tell her: "Um, no reason..." Applejack could tell that Starlight was hiding something but couldn't tell what it is.
After a short time, all the campers were ready and the activity was about to begin. AJ and Rarity was a pair that was going first, but so was Twilight & Sunset and Starlight with "Bright Eyes" (she's substituting for Trixie who was still absent). However, while there was still time, Sunset quickly catches AJ's attention.
"Hey, Applejack" Sunset loudly whisper. "We need to talk to you about something."
"What's up?" AJ replied.
"This morning, me and Twilight think we've found magical activity in our tent."
"Really!" AJ exclaimed. She was about to toss it up to Sunset's paranoia, but one nod from Twilight erase her doubts.
"I don't suppose you or the others discover anything strange around here?"
After thinking about it, Applejack did recall something important. "Well, I wouldn't we'd found anything, but I can recall something with Fluttershy."
"With Fluttershy!? Why what's wrong?"
"Well, nothing was wrong exactly. It just when me and Rainbow met up with her, she said she was talking with some birds?"
Perplexed, Sunset confusingly thought out loud: "Talking with birds?" However, beneath all of their notice, Starlight couldn't help but overhear their conversation
Seeing the confusion on Sunset's, AJ explains: "I know. We all thought it was weird. Even Fluttershy thought she was imagining it. But... she said that she could understand them."
"Huh..." Sunset exclaimed, unsure of what to think about it. But before she could think any harder about it, Gloriosa's voice called out and grabs everyone's attention.
"Alright Campers, Are You Ready To Start Climbing?!"
Seeing that they are out of time, the girls pause their conversation and get into positions. Once the campers were finally ready, Glori' began the countdown.
"Ready! Set! Climb!"
And with a boom in her voice, the climbing race had begun. Since Sunset was the strongest one of the pair, she was the puller while Twilight was the climber. And despite being a book nerd, Twilight did fairly well for herself. Starlight was a climber too and so far made the most hight. The only one who wasn't off the ground yet... was Rarity.
Irritated, AJ yells at her partner: "Rarity! Can Start Climbing Already!?"
"Patience, my dear" Rarity says back to her. "I got to make sure nothing that nothing gets broken on my way up." She says this as she takes off her fake nails.
Growing even more annoyed, AJ joked to her: "If you so worried about your darn nails, I bet I can pull you all the way up there."
Rarity, not wanting to be unexpectedly be pulled, tells her climbing partner: "Don't you dare."
"Then start climbing already!"
"I will! Just give me 5 more-"
Reaching the end of her nerves, AJ decided to give the rope a tug. Just a small one to get Rarity motivated. However, with two firm hands, Applejack pulled the rope... hard.
"Woah!" Applejack cried out, shocked by how much rope that she pulled.
With great force, Rarity was yanked into the air. "AAH!" she screamed as she somehow flew several feet into the air. She somehow flew pass Twilight and Starlight. In the brief moment that anybody could comprehend all of this, everyone who saw this was struck in disbelief.
But then, as Rarity was about 4/5's up the rock wall, gravity finally takes hold. There was a face full of fright on Rarity's face as she soon realizes that her body is gonna fall back down to the ground. "AAAAAHH!" she shrieked in utter horror.
In the micro-moment of this incident, people wanted to go out to help her. However, Applejack was still recoiling from her rope tug, Sunset and "Derpy" was too busy holding onto the rope of their partners and everybody else was too far away to try and catch her.
In the split second as Rarity falls pass her, Twilight extends her arm and try to catch her. "Rarity!" she cried out. But despite her best efforts, Twilight could catch her. Twilight's heart was pounding her chest as think desperately on what she can do.
But then, before Rarity hit the ground, something miraculous happened. With just a few feet off the ground, Rarity stopped mid-air with a glowing glow holding her in place.
"AAAAAAAAaahhh! Aaah! Aah... Hm?"
It took Rarity a moment to realize that she had stopped. But when she did, she was stunned, as with the rest of the campers. They all were speechless as they see this magical phenomenon before their very eyes. However, none was more surprised than Starlight as this was her first-time witness genuine magic.
But in this intense moment of silence, Rarity had something to say.
Things were... awkward. After being tossed into the air but a surprising burst of strength from Applejack, Rarity was saved from a hard fall by a magically telocentric field. A field... that Twilight and Sunset had found a similar occurrence earlier that morning.
After Rarity was put down safely, the rock climbing activity was temporarily put on hold. Twilight, Sunset, Rarity, and AJ were being a bit distant from the others and try to discuss it among themselves. Other campers/students were also distant amongst themselves and get their heads around just happened. Although, there weren't... as surprised and confused as you expect them to be. Meanwhile, Starlight stood alone but herself. She was feeling a bit left out as she could tell that everybody around her knows something that she doesn't and is trying to hide it from her.
And as for Gloriosa, who wanted to keep everything in order...
"Ok everyone, ha-ha... I know what we just saw was certainly... "icredible! But, I'm sure there's a logical explina-"
But before she could finish, Glori' suddenly got a buzz from her walkie-talkie. After giving a sorrowful smile to the campers, she answers the call.
"What is it Timber!?" Gloriosa answered angrily. "I was in the middle of something."
"Sorry Glori'. It just that... I got a bit of a problem."
"What kind of problem?"
"Well, we managed to get some of the boats out onto the water. However, the wind stopped and now I've got a couple of campers stranded in the middle of the lake."
After taking a deep breath, Gloriosa replies: "Ok, I got this." She then hang-up her walkie and declare to her group of campers: "Ok everyone! I have to go and sort out an emergency. Don't start rock climbing again until I get back!"
And with that, Gloriosa was off and trusted the campers to follow her orders. And when she's gone, some of the teens began to talk to each other. Maybe because the authority is now absent that they felt more inclined to relax. However, Starlight still hasn't relaxed as she focuses on Twilight and her friends as she tries to overhear their conversation.
"That Was It!" Sunset loudly whispered. "That was the magic that I and Twilight saw this morning!"
"That was it!?" Rarity inquires with a hint of anger/sarcasm in her voice. "Being tossed into the air and then freeze in midair?"
Twilight answers: "Well, uh not quite. Things were suspended in midair, but we don't remember being thrown up."
Applejack rubs her chin as a heavy thought enter her mind. "You know... that is kind of like how I pulled Sunset during our first day here. Maybe... that burst of strength might have come from me?! "
AJ's friends look at her with silent surprises as they couldn't help but agree with her deduction.
But despite slowly understanding their circumstance, Rarity then exclaims in exasperation: "Ok, ok, but why is this happening?"
As soon as Twilight was about to let out her thoughts, Sunset was quicker to respond and replies: "Isn't it obvious? It's The Everfree!" Her friends looked at her with rolling eyes and tired expressions to her paranoia. Sunset explains to them: "I'm serious! If not have magic and powers is considered normal in this world, then getting them is what makes this forest abnormal."
Despite their tiredness of Sunset's fear-filled rantings, Rarity, AJ, and Twilight couldn't completely deny it. Strange things have been happening since they arrived in the forest and maybe there's something that is in the forest that is causing. However, they don't think the forest itself is to blame.
But while they were pondering, Twilight happen to see someone in the corner of her eye. It was Starlight who happen to be caught leaning in and trying to eavesdrop on their group discussion. "OH!" Starlight exclaimed as soon be noticed by the whole group.
There was a brief moment of stunned surprise between Starlight and Twilight's group to the odd discovery. But then, as she was still surprised and was still leaning in, Starlight soon lose her balance.
"Woah!"
Starlight tumble down to the grassy ground and before Applejack's feet. But as soon as the surprise of everyone worn off, AJ quickly addresses her. "Starlight!" she said loudly and firmly. "Were you spying on us?!"
Starlight looked up and was met upset and still slightly shocked faces. Embarrassment quickly washes over her as there's no way that she can talk her way out of this. Fully accepting the consequences, Starlight replies: "Guilty" with a few awkward chuckles.
But while Twilight and the others were slightly upset with Starlight for eavesdropping on them, they weren't mad enough to not assist her off the ground. Twilight and Sunset quickly came around and offer out their hands and Starlight humbly accepts. But once she was on her feet, AJ then proceeds to drill her for information.
"Why were you listening in on us!?" she asked sternly.
"Because... I just thought you knew something about it" Starlight replied.
"What!?"
"Well, it just... strange things has been happening. And whenever they do, I notice you all huddling together and talk quite intensely about it."
Starlight's logic was spot on as AJ and the others was left quite speechless. But then, before they could come up with a good excuse, Starlight then adds:
"In fact, I even notice Rainbow Dash running off supersonic speed earlier."
"WHAT!!" Twilight and the others shouted out with great surprise. They were so surprised, even Starlight was caught off guard.
"Um, Yeah..." Starlight explains: "She literally "Dashed" when Gloriosa sends her off to her own group."
Twilight and her friends were left speechless. They didn't notice Rainbow running off with super speed or how things are more serious then what they thought it was. Even Starlight herself was 2nd guessing how much they knew about this.
But as soon as they just all just wrapped their heads around everything, a new surprise soon greets them in a form of a large... "BOOM!"
A large, loud noise was heard from a distance and even shook up some of the girls. "What now!?" Rarity moaned. They look around and soon notice puffs of (pink) smoke escaping from the cafeteria hall.
"The cafeteria hall?" Sunset exclaimed with confusion.
But then, a light bulb of bad thoughts lit up in Twilight's head as she gasps out loud: "Huh! Pinkie and the other's were baking in there!"
Fear and worry quickly envelop all of them as they became concerned for their friends. With little delay, Twilight and her friends rush towards the hall to see how things were. Starlight also followed them, with equal parts worried & curious.
All the girls ran towards the mess hall with fear and anxiety dragging on them. "What could cause the explosion?" they wondered. And as they try to answer that question, their fears grew the ever the stronger.
When they arrive at the building, Twilight quickly swing open the door to see what was going on. But when she does, a large body of pink smoke escape from the door and some of it got into their mouths.
"*Cough!* *Cough!* *Cough!*"
Twilight and the others coughed up any pink smoke that might have gotten into their lungs. Fortunately, they didn't feel any sort of other negative side effect and hopefully thinks it was mostly harmless. Once they were done coughing and most of the smoke had cleared up, they managed to see the state inside.
They saw all the other students/campers inside who were also coughing up quite a storm. Celestia and Luna were also there and try to brush away any remaining pink smoking from their faces so the can get a statue of the situation.
"*Cough!* *Cough!* Is Everybody Alright!?" Principal Celestia called out.
"Is There A Fire!?" Luna followed up.
But as everyone looks around for any sign of danger, they couldn't find any. There was no fires or any damage. There were no remaining smoke or anything that could be hazardous for anybody. There was, however, pieces of cookie dough scattered about and was hanging off the walls and some of the campers.
Upon seeing no potential dangers, Celestia half-melancholy announces: "Why not we take a 10-minute break so we can sort all of this out?" And we piece of cookie dough lands on her head, she then adds: "And maybe clean some of this mess."
A few of the students then moan in disappointment. Things were enough fun a moment ago that putting it on hold put some of them in a downer mood.
But as the student began leaving the hall, Twilight and her friends finally managed to find Rainbow, Pinkie, and Fluttershy. There were in the middle of the room and they were all quite perplexed to what has happened.
When she got the opportunity, Twilight & co move towards her friends and Twilight asks them: "Guys! What happened?!"
Rainbow and the others were surprised to see their friends at the "messy" Mess Hall... but it was too be expected by the obvious explosion. Rainbow scratched her head and answers: "Well, you see Twilight, that is kind of hard to explain... "
"Yeah!" Pinkie loudly added. "One minute, I was like "You Get More Sprinkles! And You Get More Sprinkles!"... "
"Ah! So you were channeling your inner "Theador Losetwo"" Rarity serendipity interrupted.
Continuing her explanation, Pinkie then reveals: "And the next minute; they started glowing and BOOM!"
Everyone fell silent, pondering how true and/or how accurate Pinkie's description was. Even Rainbow and Fluttershy were so sure and they were there. And as everyone was thinking, Starlight, noticing an unopened jar of sprinkles by a nearby table. "These Sprinkles?" she asked curiously.
When Pinkie saw what she mean, she cheerfully replies: "Yep!"
There was an awkward silence again as everyone sees that Starlight was formulating an idea in her head. Starlight did have an idea... just one that she doesn't particularly like.
Moments later, Starlight, Twilight, and the others were all hiding behind a table while Pinkie was in the center with the jar of sprinkles in her hand. They've decided to recreate the explosion, seeing if they can prove the one theory that is lingering in their minds. A few of them question the sanctity of this experiment, but both Twilight and Pinkie did give their approval of the plan.
On the table in front of Pinkie was a single sprinkle-less cupcake. As Pinkie gently pour out a few sprinkles onto her hands, her friends instantly ducked behind for cover. Pinkie then softly sprinkle the sprinkles onto the cupcake and in a few seconds...
"BOOM!"
True enough, the cupcake instantly exploded. Splotches of pink pastry scattered everywhere a quite a bit of it splattered on to Pinkie (although she doesn't mind it as much). The explosion wasn't as quite as big and loud as it was earlier, but it did slightly spook all the girl that was inside. Twilight and the other did eventually peak their heads and see Pinkie Pie eating the cupcake remains off of her face.
"Whelp, that certainly added an explosive flavor" Pinkie Pie joked.
Seeing that Pinkie is still making jokes, her friends felt safe enough to get out of hiding (even though it was a really bad pun). However, while the girls know more about the explosion now, that just leave more questions than answers.
Rainbow Dash says aloud: "Man Pinkie, what did you put in those sprinkles?"
"Nothing" Pinkie replied. "They're the same old sprinkles that I always use."
"Then how did they explode?!" Applejack says back.
After sucking a finger full of cream, Pinkie began pondering for the answer. And then, after a second or two, a light bulb light over her head (figuratively and literally).
"Oh! Maybe It Was Magic!"
When she heard her answer, Starlight tilt her head in confusion. "Magic?" She says aloud.
"Yeah! It might be the magic that me and my friends have."
"Um, Pinkie..."
"It's the same sort of magic that we used to stop the sirens and stop Principal Cinch... "
"Pinkie!"
"And the one that we got from Sunset when stole a magical crown from a parallel world..."
"PINKIE!"
Pinkie froze when she heard all of her friends yell at her. "WHAT!" she yelled back. She then saw all of her friends looking unexplainingly angry and cross towards her. Pinkie was confused at first. But when she looks to her side and saw who she was talking to; Starlight, Pinkie soon realize her mistake. "Oh..."
"Wait... Sirens!? Crowns? Parallel world? What!?"
Starlight trying her best to comprehend what Pinkie unintentionally revealed. However, she said it so quickly and one too many nouns that she couldn't grasp her head around. She even holding her head up with her hand.
Twilight and a few of her friends sighed. The cat is finally out of the bag and it looks like that they need to explain things to Starlight's before gets a migraine. Sunset gently rests a hand on her shoulder, catching her attention, and tells her: "Here, sit down. It's going to be a long story."
Starlight sat down on a bench and she listens. She listens quietly as Twilight, Sunset, and the other, explain their magical abilities as well as their many escapades back at school. They explain the origins of their magic and Sunset Shimmer's home, through battling sirens at the Battle of the Bands, to the events of the Friendship Games. There were times that Starlight needed more clarification on. But, for the most part, it went pretty smoothly. Starlight slowly gets absorbed into their stories and her attention was nearly undistractable. And as Rainbow finish explaining, Starlight has a calm and invested understanding of their magic.
"--And that's why we can transform when we play music, able to fight monsters, and do other generally cool stuff."
After taking a deep breath, Starlight exclaims: "Wow. That was... really entertaining. I can't believe you can do all these amazing and cool things."
Rarity approaches her tells Starlight: "We're sorry for keeping this from you dearie. We weren't being mean or anything. We just weren't sure how you would handle it?"
"Oh, No-no-no! I totally understand!" Starlight replied. "We are usually told to keep magical stuff a secret from normal people. It just that... I never expect to see that sort of thing in real life."
"So you are not scared or freaked out by it?" Fluttershy inquired.
"No. I mean, I was at first, but now I understand it all. In fact... I think it's pretty cool!"
When she heard Starlight saying that their magic was cool, Rainbow felt both honored and flattered. "I know, right!" she says as she extends her fist towards Starlight. Feeling the same, Starlight return the gesture and fistbump Rainbow Dash.
All the girls were amazed by how accepting Starlight was. It seems most of their worries were unwarranted and didn't need to stress as much. However, while their issue with Starlight is resolved, Twilight still remember the bigger issue.
"Yeah well, that unfortunately doesn't answer all the strange stuff that's happening around the camp. The sudden bursts of speed and strength, levitating objects, talking to animals, Exploding Sprinkle!"
Her friends, Starlight included, was suddenly reminded about their strange predicament and the difficult question that lays before them. They don't want to admit that it's because of the forest (despite how much Sunset want to say it otherwise). But after a quick deliberation, Sunset said something:
"We all reckon that it's because of our magic, right?" Everyone had quick glances at one another. Each look silently saying that it has to be the case. Sunset then proposes: "Well maybe... they're growing stronger. Maybe they're getting to a point where we don't need our instruments to access our transformations and they are... leaking out somehow?"
When they all heard Sunset's theory, all the girls became slightly nervous. Just the idea of their powers getting stronger and getting to a point where they are causing accidents is scary to them. Maybe it'll become so great for any of them to control?
But then, breaking the tension, Rainbow Dash suddenly blurts out: "Well, if these powers are granting me super speed, then more I say."
"What!" Twilight and the others gasped.
"Dash, don't you see how serious this is?" Applejack asked her.
"Of Course I Do!" Rainbow answered. "One of my wishes for the longest time is to be really fast. That why I gotten into sports. Sure, maybe I need to train a little bit to get them under control. But if that what it takes to get super speed, I'm all for it."
Rainbow Dash's words had an unexpected effect on everyone. Just the joyous tone in her voice made them feel a long-awaited dream has just been fulfilled. And as they started thinking about it, they soon discover that they have a similar feeling too.
"I always wanted to know what animals are thinking" Fluttershy thinks out loud.
"And I always want my parties to go off in a bang" Pinkie remarks.
"And having levitating powers will make my work much easier..." Twilight commented.
And Applejack adds: "And I will admit, being super strong will be a real help around the farm."
But Rarity then questions: "But wait! What will my superpower be?"
Pinkie then says to her: "Well, you always have a liking sparkling stones, Rarity."
"Yes. I do have an affinity towards diamonds. Just how inside everyone stone lies a beautiful gem that is waiting to get out and how easily it draws your attention." And as she says that, Rarity impulsively wave her hand in front of her face. And in doing so, she created sparkling white diamonds that last for about a second but it instantly amazes all of her friends.
One by one, the girls are becoming less frightened by the situation and becoming enamored instead. Perhaps their magic is granting them their unsaid wishes and giving what they want. They are still cautious about them however and don't want these new powers to cause an accident.
"Wow!" Starlight sighed. "You guys are really amazing." As she looks at the 7 magical girls before her, Starlight was at a lost for words. To her, they are 7 magical goddesses that she couldn't see competing against. But her adoration for them grow, a weed of envy grow along with it. And beneath the breath of her voice, she whispers: "Maybe..."
However, Fluttershy, a professional at being silent, overhears Starlight's whisper and asks her: "Did you say something Starlight?"
Starlight was surprised that she was heard. She would brush it off if it wasn't for everyone quickly look towards her. Seeing no point in hiding it, Starlight decided to let out her feelings.
"Ok, I know this sound really selfish, but... is it possible... to share your magic with me?"
Twilight and her friends paused in surprise. They can sense that Starlight is having a growing interest in their powers and are worried about her reason for wanting them. They're not sure if it's right for them to share them with her, but also don't want to outright deny. However, considering that they don't know how to share their powers with her, they use that reason as their excuse.
"I'm sorry Starlight. It doesn't work like that" Twilight apologized.
Starlight was shocked when she heard Twilight's response. And every explanation that they gave was driving the skewer in her heart.
"It isn't because we don't want to, but more like we don't know how" Applejack explained.
"Yeah, and it isn't like we wanted them initially. We just sort of... got them" Rainbow Dash added.
Starlight was devastated. Even though she only just discovered it, she was shocked that she could get these "Special" power. Sensing her sadness, Fluttershy tries to comfort her and tells her
"I hope you understand?"
Starlight notice that Fluttershy's worriedness towards her. To mask her feelings, Starlight put on a soft smile and replies: "He-he... Yeah, it was a pretty tall answer to ask for. And like I said, I was being a bit selfish."
"We're sorry Starlight" Sunset says to her. "There just ain't just that we can do."
Trying to cheer her up, Pinkie Pie sat down next to Starlight and tells her: "And hey, think of it like this: You aren't the only one without magical superpowers." Pinkie's words did genuinely comfort her. While Starlight was upset that she can't get any powers to make her feel special, she could find the solace that she isn't the only one.
But then, right when the girls had fully brought Starlight out of her emotional slump, they all suddenly and ruckus outside.
"BSSSSHHHH! BUMP! BANG!"
Suddenly, a loud bump hit the exterior of the hall. All the girls heard it and panic soon enveloped them once again.
"Oh! I hope I don't jinx anything?" Pinkie said to herself.
Twilight, Starlight, and the rest of the girls quickly exited the mess hall and head towards the source of the commotion. There, they soon find a large crowd of campers gathering around the shore of the lake where the boat sailing activity was being held. Curious and worried, they all try to find out what has happened.
Starlight quickly grabs the attention of Sandalwood, a more well known "eco-kid" back at Canterlot Hight., and asks him: "What happened?"
Sandalwood swiftly explains: "All the teachers and that was figuring out how to rescue a stranded boat that was stuck in the middle of the lake. And then all of a sudden, it came rushing back like it was the roadrunner. And Flash--"
"FLASH!?" Twilight interrupted.
"Yeah, dude. I don't know what but I think that Flash might have been..."
As Sandal' was slowing down his explanation, great fear and panic were consuming the girl, especially for Twilight. Anxious about what has happened, Twilight and the others try to push their way through the crowd and see the situation for themselves.
But once they got to the front, they quickly see Timber, Gloriosa, Celestia & Luna... and Flash... who wasn't looking too worst to wear?
In fact, aside from Flash moaning in pain, you couldn't tell that he'd been injured.
"Careful Dearie" Gloriosa stated when Flash tried to move. "Don't try any sudden movements."
"But Counselor Daisy, I feel--Eh!" Flash said back before he suddenly feel pain across his body. He then half-jokingly states: "Ok, it hurts like heck, but I don't feel anything else that is wrong with me."
"Are you sure dude?" Timber said back at him. "It looked like that boat hit you very hard."
But despite his own admitted confusion, Flash gave a silent nod towards him. Indeed, despite being rammed by a boat and slammed against a wooden cabin, Flash seems mostly well. Twilight and the others watch on in silent as Celestia has a closer examination.
"Hmm... I don't see anything that is too banged up. But still!" Celestia turn towards Gloriosa and adk her: "Do you have any ice bags?"
"Of Course!" Glori' confidently replied. "We always have a bag in cade of an emergency."
"Good!" Celestia replied back. "Once we get an ice pack on him, we will--"
But before Celestia could finish explaining, she suddenly heard a loud "WOAH!" coming from the students. When she look towards them, she saw an amazed expression on all of their face. Even Luna and the camp counselors were inexplicably quiet all of a sudden.
Celestia was understandably confused. But then, she suddenly noticed a strange warm feeling coming from her hands (that were rest on Flash Sentry). When she look down, Celestia saw her hands emanating in small glowing balls of sunlight!
Both Celestia and Flash are just as confused and surprised as the others. However, as the strange sunlight was hitting him, Flash was suddenly feeling more comfortably. He feel like he was being healed as all the pain from with in his is quickly fading away. Once the glowing had stopped, Flash tried moving his arm.
"Wow!" he said out loud. "It... doesn't anymore!"
Everyone wad left amazed and couldn't believe what they had just saw. Even Celestia was staring at her own hands in disbelief. Not only has Flash had gotten away from an incident with barely a scratch, but even Celestia had awakened to some miraculous healing power. It was so amazing, you can say that it was...
... Magic.
"Ok, yeah, I jinxed it" Pinkie Pie remark as she stood next to a jaw-dropped Starlight.
Things continued to become far more strange, but far more interesting, from then on. Understandably, morning activities were cut short so the teachers and counselors can get their heads wrap around the situation. But since the campers no longer have any activities to do, they find other ways to entertain themselves.
And that was when they all discover their unexpected gifts.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
The "Eco-Friendly Dude"; Sandlewood, was playing his usual game of keepie ups with his jugglers' ball. He didn't find Celestia's healing powers or Flash's super durability as anything too surprising. He goes to school at Canterlot High. He had gotten used to magical stuff by now. But as he wasn't expecting anything great happening to him, his assumption was soon proven wrong.
Just as Sandlewood was just about to beat his high score, he soon lost control of his ball and accidentally kick it far into the lake. In his own words, he was severely "bummed out". But right when he thought he would get his ball back, Sandle' suddenly saw his juggler ball shoot out of the water and fly back into his hand. And as he saw his soaking wet ball in the palm of his hand, he had one thing to say:
"Wow!"
Later, rumors were beginning to spread that more and more campers were awakening to their magical abilities. Most of them still haven't but that doesn't stop them all from talking like wildfire.
But off in the distance, two girls was sulking by the gazebo. One was Vinyl Scratch who was a DJ and the other was Octavia who plays the cello. Despite having an ok time at Camp Everfree, they were upset that they couldn't bring their instruments and tools along for the trip. Their musical prowess was eager to get out and their fingers were twitching at the scene.
But then, out of boredom, Vinyl thought about pretending to play some music and envision her DJ-mixer on her lap. And then, to her amazement, a holographic mixer suddenly formed in front of her and was made by magical light. Both Octavia and Vinyl was surprised at first. But when she touched a sliding dial out of curiosity, a sound was suddenly heard, just like how Vinyl imagined.
Amazed, Octavia then imagined her large cello by her side. And like her friend Vinyl, a holographic version was made with nano-seconds. With magical sparks lighting up in their eyes, both musicians began using their magically formed instruments and release the music within their soul.
More and more, campers were discovering the hidden powers that were unique to each of them. Some respond to their will. Others were more passive. But regardless, they always seem to be suited towards the user.
Over by a bench, Bulk Biceps, a burly and muscular student, was doing arts & crafts at a breakneck pace. His fingers were like a whirlwind as he was shooting out potholders and coasters and bracelets.
Meanwhile, Sandlewood was exploring his powers and see how far his ball will return from. With a mighty swing, he chucked it into the woods. And within seconds, it returns back with a few twigs and leafs that were stuck to it.
But inside the woods, two girls were exploring a nearby flower patch. They are Lyra and Bon-Bon and they are "very-close" friends. Sandlewood's ball accidentally damaged a few tree branches and one broke off and began falling towards Lyra. Despite looking away and examining the flowers, Bon-Bon instantly senses danger towards her mate. With lightning reflexes, she pulled Lyra away as the branch was about to hit her. Lyra was left a gasped and amazed and feels really appreciative towards her mate.
Eventually, no sooner than the afternoon, almost everybody in camp was showing off their new magical abilities. Campers were producing flashing lights and showing amazing physical skill. Almost everyone was blown away and overjoyed with their new powers.
However, not everybody was excited about the powers that everybody was getting. Starlight was walking through the camp and see all the amazing things that her peers are doing. She can see Applejack lifting a bench full of campers and Vinyl and Octavia having a concert with their hologram instruments. Twilight testing out her telekinesis and "Derpy" was blowing a stream of bubbles from her mouth (and right into Starlight's face). Starlight was amazed to all the things that she was seeing... but was also feeling a little bit abandoned. She was the only one at camp without any magic or talent and she couldn't but feel... that she has less self-worth now.
The teachers and camp counselors, on the other hand, have mixed opinions and thoughts about this. Both Celestia and Luna were a little bit embarrassed and worried about what the camp staff might think about their students. Timber Spruce was at a lost for words while Gloriosa has a massive grin on her face. She looks at the campers new magical abilities and she can imagine all the new activities and all possibilities to improve her camp. She might find a way to protect her camp from Filthy Rich. As Glori's grin was growing more intense, Timber's worry towards her also grew and wonder how things will develop from here.
Later, the sun had set and campers were having a second campfire. They all seem tired of discovering and showcasing their powers and was just eager to discuss them with each other. Some were wondering if they can keep them or how this will change their lives. But regardless, there was much joyful banter around the fire.
However, there was one camper who wasn't happy. Starlight. Starlight was angrily sulking by the fire as she stares out with bittered eyes towards the others. She can sense negative emotions was filling her heart and she doesn't know how to handle them. She doesn't want to suppress them but she doesn't know how to be free from them either.
And then, not to her welcomed surprise, 6 familiar faces joined her campfire circle. 6 faces who try to be friendly towards her but doesn't stop praising the amazing talents of everybody around her.
"Man, did you see Curly Wind's frisbee toss earlier!?" Rainbow ask out loud. "He tossed that disk over the horizon!!"
Sunset Shimmer then replies to her: "Yeah, but unlike Sandle', there's no way that disk will ever be coming back."
"Well, I personally enjoy Octavia's and Vinyl's musical performance" Rarity commented. "They were wonderful before, but now their tunes are digging into my soul."
But then Fluttershy adds while showing tender love towards a small bird: "Well nothing is as hypnotizing now listening to my bird songs and hearing their lovely lyrics." The bird then chirps in delight.
Pinkie then jokes: "Well let's just hope it isn't like the sirens and hypnotizing people."
As the group of girls began to laugh out loud, none of them notice Starlight Glimmer was watching them in silence. She could feel something boiling deep down in her stomach and she tries her best to keep it under wraps. But then, to her surprise, Starlight suddenly notice somebody sat down next to her. Somebody that she hadn't seen all day and only now is able to talk to.
"Trixie!" Starlight called out with surprise. "Where have you been!?"
Trixie was silent, making sure that Starlight can't look into her eyes. She aloofly says to her: "Oh, you know... around."
"Around!? Have You Seen What Everybody Been Doing?"
"I have" Trixie insisted. "It just... I'm not all that shocked by them, that's all."
Starlight was doubtful towards her friend. She can tell by the tone of her voice that Trixie was definitely hiding something from her. But at the same time, she can feel sadness within that voice and it might be a secret that she enjoyed having. Curious, Starlight tries to figure out what that secret is.
"No Way! Don't Tell Me You Have Magical Powers Too!?"
Surprised, Trixie says back to her: "What!! No! No-no! I'm just upset that..."
"That... ?"
Trixie could see that Starlight was digging into her. She knows that she will continue until she says something. With unable to hide in silence, the magnificent magician broke down and gave Starlight an answer.
"I Don't Have Any Magic!"
Starlight froze in surprise awe and even the other girls overheard and fell silent. "You Don't Have Any Magic!?" Starlight gasped.
Trixie then quickly discloses: "I-I... I don't know how!? I tried and tried but nothing happened. I... I don't think I have it. That's all."
Starlight continues to be in shock and awe. From everything that she saw today, she had expected her friend to be like the others. She was now feeling sorry towards Trixie... but secretly relieved that she isn't the only one.
But then, sensing the everybody around her is beginning to pity her, Trixie then put on a confident persona and loudly boasts: "And besides, I don't need them. I Am The Great And Powerful Trixie! I'm magical enough without them."
While everybody was feeling good towards Trixie for putting on a strong face, Rainbow Dash couldn't help but say back to her: "Yeah, but what's a magician if everybody around her has real magic?" Trixie growls back at Rainbow, upset that she ruined her moment. Even Applejack gave her a quick slap.
But then, against everybody's expectations, Discord suddenly appears just behind Starlight and Trixie. And he says as he also sat down nearby Starlight: "Well for one, she is isn't the only other person who is magicless in this summer camp. I too don't seem to have any magic power so this trio is now a group."
All the girls around was confused and don't know what to say. They feel somewhat awkward a grown adult wanted to join their conversation but they also don't have to courage to push him away.
But fortunately, to get away from the awkwardness, everyone soon notices Twilight has appeared and sat down next to Sunset (who was more welcomed than Discord). Happy and curious, Sunset says to her: "Hey, Twilight. Where have you been?"
"Oh, you know... I've just gone and seen... Flash Sentry" Twilight replied nervously. But then, Twilight soon heard some of her friends went: "Ooooohh!". Annoyed, Twilight gave more detail (but still very nervous and shy about it). "Hey! It's not like W-what you all are thinking. I was just worried after what happened this morning."
An "Ooohh" was heard again, but this time it was just by one and it was clearly Pinkie. All her other friends know that it wasn't a casual moment and it's nothing to joke about. As Applejack put: "It's alright Sugar cube. We all can guess what it must feel like if somebody that you really like was in a serious accident."
However, this hadn't calm Twilight down and it only made her all the more insistent about her true feeling. "What! I don't like Flash Sentry. No, wait, I do like him! I mean, I tried but-"
But then, before Twilight would have had a nervous breakdown, Sunset quickly put a hand over her mouth and explains: "Don't worry Twilight. We know what you mean." Twilight finally felt reassured and calm at that moment thanks to her friends understanding.
However, Rarity, with a keen ear, curiously asks: "Wait. What does she mean by she tried?"
"ANYWAY!" Sunset quickly interrupted. "... How about we talk about all the magic that has been going around the camp, shall we?"
With the subject having been moved away from Twilight's confused feelings towards Flash, things slowly become more serious. Even Starlight, despite not liking to discuss it, leans in to overhear. Twilight, after she finished pondering, thinks out loud and tells the others:
"Yeah. It's a little bit weird that everybody has suddenly gained some sort of superpower."
Rainbow, noticing Bulk Biceps from afar and see that he was showing off a clay pot that he has made, commented to Twilight: "Yeah, if you count "Super Arts & Crafts" as a superpower?"
"But still. I wonder how everybody got them?" Twilight wondered.
As everybody was thinking, Fluttershy came up with a theory. "Maybe it because we shared all our magic with everyone during the Friendship Games and it had lingered within them."
"Interesting theory, Fluttershy" Discord compliment which Flutter' clearly appreciated. But then he says: "However, that doesn't explain why I didn't get superpowers since I was clearly there when it happened."
However, Pinkie Pie then soon asks him: "Hang On A Second! I didn't I hear that you were hiding in the bus when it happened?"
"I-I-I don't know what you're talking about" Discord denied while also trying to avoid eye contact.
But then, while everyone was amused by Discord's embarrassment, Trixie suddenly notice that Starlight had become sadder all of sudden. Worried, she asks her: "Starlight? Are you OK?"
Feeling a mix of negative emotions, Starlight replies out loud to everybody: "Sure, why wouldn't I be? It's not like I missed out on a super-cool event and now I can't be as special as everybody else." Everybody... could detect the thick layer of sarcasm in Starlight's voice. They can tell that she's clearly upset and frustrated that doesn't have any powers as the rest of them.
"Well... I'm sorry Starlight" Applejack apologized. "We wanna help you if we could. It's just... not that easy."
But then Starlight angrily snaps back: "Well you could share your powers with everybody During these "Friendship Games! Why not now!?"
Everybody froze for a sec due to her fiery tone. However, Pinkie soon explains: "Well, for starters, we sort had help from Twilight's super amazing friend over at Crystal Prep and-"
"Crystal Prep!?" Starlight interrupted.
Shocked, Pinkie nervously replies: "Um... Yes?"
Tense silence soon fills the circle as everybody wasn't sure about Starlight's sudden outburst. They could see some signs of anger and frustration in her face but wasn't sure where it was coming from. As a grasshopper was beginning to chirp, Fluttershy hurriedly whispers to it: "Not now, Scooter".
Starlight, noticing that everybody was shocked and afraid of her, exhales a massive sigh. She then depressingly says to all of them: "You know what, forget it. I'm fine with not being special. I think I'm going to bed now."
As Starlight was about to walk away, Sunset tries to call out to her: "Starlight! Look, if something's bothering you, you can always try and talk about it with-"
"I SAID I'M FINE! ALRIGHT!!"
Everybody froze, shaken by Starlight's explosive tone. Even the grasshoppers and even the forest fell silent. After getting her point across, Starlight turns back away and calmly(?) says: "Goodnight."
As Starlight walk away and towards the tents, confusion, and sadness filled their air as they became definitively worried for Starlight. They were wondering what was making her this upset since they feel this it's more than just not getting powers.
And then, in an attempt to add levity to the situation, Applejack thinks out loud: "Dang... I hope our sisters ain't having this level of drama back at school."
She not wrong But she not entirely right either...
"They Said WHAT!!" Sweetie Belle yelled in gasping surprise.
It was the afternoon and school was already over. As they were walking down the sidewalk towards their homes, Scootaloo had just finished telling her friends: Sweetie Belle and Applebloom, what happened and they were surely surprised.
"That what they said" Scootaloo reiterated. "Now I got the Dazzlings wanting to perform at my party!"
Worried & Concerned, Applebloom asks: "And... did you let them?"
Even before she replied, the dower and sad expression on Scootaloo's face said it all. "Well... it all happened so quickly and so intensely that I couldn't say anything else."
"Wow. What rotten luck" Sweetie Belle commented.
Both Sweetie Belle and Applebloom feel absolutely sorry for their close friend and irritation towards the Dazzlings. While they aren't usually unforgiving, they don't have many kind words for the Dazzlings. Leaving what they did at the Battle of the Bands aside, they always seem to annoy everybody with their haughty attitudes and do shallow attempts to please people. They can sense that they're trying but they are also self-defeating.
Then, as they were reaching the apartment area of town and feeling too worried for Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle quickly proclaims: "You know what!? I think me and Applebloom should go to your party to make sure everything is alright?"
"Yeah!" Applebloom agreed.
However, Scootaloo was less than enthused to her friend's Enthusiasm. "What! No!" she tells to them. "Diamond Tiara was sad when I told her that I can't come to her party. If you two don't go, who knows how upset she'll be?"
Sweetie Belle and Applebloom were slightly miffed but she does have a point. All three of them had become close to DT and sort of acted as her moral compass. To (willingly) invite them to her party was an event that none of them had ever expected. But if they don't go to her party, especially if it because of the Dazzlings, they fear that Diamond Tiara might regress back towards her bullying days.
But despite knowing all of that, Applebloom says asks her: "But Scootaloo, what are you gonna do about the Dazzlings?"
"Hmm... I'm sure I'll figure something out" she replied.
But then, as Scootaloo had made her shakey claim, all three girls notice something in front of them. In front of the apartment building where Scootaloo live was three, brightly colored girls, waiting impatiently by the doorstep. And to the CMC shock, horror, and dismay, it was Adagio, Sonata, and Aria.
"WHAT!!" Sweetie Belle gasped. "They're Already Here!?"
"How did they know your address!?" Applebloom wondered aloud. Scootaloo didn't reply but she did make a rather regretful moan.
Both Sweetie Belle and Applebloom looked at Scootaloo wondered what she's gonna do. Scootaloo could barely withstand embarrassment, confusion, and general shyness that were raging inside of her. At her wit's end, she could only make a sorrowful expression towards her friends.
"Do... you want us to come and support you?" Applebloom inquire.
"That would be much appreciated" Scootaloo gratefully replies.
After exhaling a massive sigh, the CMC began walking towards the Dazzlings... and begrudgingly, let them inside the building. And as they were making their approach, the Dazzlings, in turn, notice them and felt relief that their boredom has ended.
Moments later, both Scootaloo's friends and the Dazzlings were inside Scootaloo's home. Scootaloo lives in a rather lucky 2-floor apartment unit that has all the elements for a comfortable living. It's nothing luxurious and the rent leaves a hefty punch to your wallet, but it's still cheaper than other units of its grade and the occupants are happy with it.
The same can't be said for the guests however as they all are gathered in the living room in awkward silence. Both Adagio and Aria want to get down to business and discuss things with Scootaloo... but Sonata was on a food skirmish in the kitchen and have to wait until she gets back. In the meantime, everyone else waited in the tension-filled room and do menial things to pass the time.
Scootaloo, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle was watching the other two Dazzling's carefully by the windowsill and try to predict what their true goal is. Adagio, who notice them staring at her, didn't think much of it as she sits omniously (and impatiently) in an armchair for her subordinate to get back. Meanwhile, Aria, the least tense person in the room, was actually exploring it and seeing what she can find. They don't often see the inside of other people's houses so she was a bit curious. Aria found a few shelves filled with books, a few decorative statues, a lucky penny that she managed to pinched, a few photos sitting on a fake fireplace. When Aria took a closer look at the photos, she saw one with Scootaloo and her friends, one with Scootaloo but this time with Rainbow Dash, and another with Scootaloo but with two older women. Said women are actually in the kitchen and dealing with Sonata. However, while looking at the last photo with the women, one question suddenly sprang in Aria's mind.
But before she could have much time to think about it, Sonata returned from the kitchen with her arms full of cookies. "Thank you very much, ma'am!" said Sonata back into the kitchen after gobbling a cookie.
"You're welcome dear!" a feminine voice says back. "Take a much as you like."
"Well, since you asked..."
But before she could go back in, Adagio angrily calls out "SONATA!" that cause her to stop. Sonata was upset but she can tell that she has enough.
After sitting down on the arm of the armchair that Adagio was sitting on, Sonata quickly eats another cookie and says to Scootaloo: "Scootaloo, those two ladies that are in your kitchen are Amazing!"
"Um... thanks?" Scootaloo replies and feeling chuffed about it.
But then, after wiping the crumbs off of her face (and then eating them), Sonata then asks curiously: "However, I can't tell which one is your mum? Can you tell me?" Ironically, that's the question that Aria wanted to ask.
Both Sweetie and Applebloom suddenly have "surprise" on both of their faces who then look towards Scootaloo. Scootaloo was looking down and has a somber expression (to say the least). But after putting on a strong and happy face, Scootaloo then tells the Dazzling: "Neither of them. I live with my aunt and her girlfriend and they have been taking care of me since I was little."
All the Dazzlings became surprised and speechless. Even Adagio was a little bit unsettled. Regretfull, Sonata quickly says: "Oh! Sorry for asking."
However, Scootaloo reassures them by saying: "That alright. Aunt Holiday and Lofty are really nice people and you couldn't find better people to look after me." Not only did Sonata became less sad, she was also slightly moved. Even Applebloom and Sweetie Belle were impressed.
But then, as everybody was savoring the tender moment, Adagio ruined it by calling out to everyone: "Yeah, Yeah, Alright! Now let's get down to business."
Following what Adagio had said and acted in a professional manner, Aria went up to Scootaloo and asks her: "Ok, before we show you our Incredibly Short song list (quickly glare at Adagio), is there any songs that you want us to sing at your party?"
Scootaloo was a little bit nervous and hesitant. However, she calmly and honestly replies: "Well, I wasn't expecting anything much aside from the "happy birthday" song."
""Happy Birthday" song?" Aria remarked.
The CMC quickly notice confused expressions on all of the Dazzling's faces. It was as if they never heard of it before. Seeing that they need a quick lesson, Sweetie explains/sings to them: "Yeah, you know? "♪Happy Birthday To You! ♪Happy Birthday To You! ♪Happy Birthday, Scootaloo! ♪Happy Birthday To You!""
The Dazzlings were both amazed and perplexed. They had never heard such a simple song before and it utterly baffles them. "Uh, no. We aren't doing that" Adagio bluntly states.
But then Sonata commented: "I don't know? It does have a nice jingle."
"But it has, like... Two Lyrics!" Aria says back to Sonata.
"I'm sorry" Scootaloo apologized. "I'm not that into music."
However, Applebloom then tells her: "Don't be, Scootaloo. It's these lot that is forcing you to choose."
Overhearing and offended, Adagio says: "What was that you little blank flank!?"
As the tension has been reignited, Sweetie Belle explains: "You heard her. You're the ones who force your way into Scootaloo's party, all because Diamond Tiara turned you down."
Everyone, Sonata and Aria included, had expected Adagio to lose her temper and go all out on them. However, Adagio took a deep breath and controlled herself. She then put on a forced smile and says to the CMC: "What! No. What gave you that idea? We just heard that it was somebody's birthday coming up. And to show everyone that we had changed, I thought we would volunteer lend our voices for the occasion."
Applebloom and Sweetie Belle was still skeptical. That did sound like a convincing excuse, but there was one thing that still caught their ears.
"What did ya mean by "everyone"?" Applebloom asked precariously.
"Well... everyone from the school, of course" Adagio answered.
Applebloom and Sweetie Belle quickly looked towards Scootaloo and all three had puzzled expressions on their faces. Scootaloo then reveals to the Dazzlings: "Um, my party will be a family only event."
"WHAT!!" Adagio, Aria, and Sonata cried.
After spotting an angry glare from Aria, Adagio hurriedly says: "But, uh, aren't you going to invite your classmates and stuff?"
"Well I would like to, but-"
"But!"
"-But everybody else is already going to Diamond Tiara's party. She invited the entire class."
Adagio was shocked, but soon began feeling shame and regret. Aria on the other hand was openly upset and yells to her leader: "Way-To-Go, Adagio! Not only are we performing at a little kid's party, but we aren't going to get any positive attention out of it!"
"Hey, How Was I Suppose To Know That She was A Dud!" Adagio yells back.
Both girls then had a quick stare down. But after a moment Aria wave up her hands and angrily exclaims: "Whatever. It's not like aren't rock bottom or anything."
But as Aria goes back to her corner and angrily brood, Adagio also has her own moment of emotion. Her hands press against her head as she wonders how she got her group into this mess and the general shame and embarrassment that came from it. Meanwhile, Sonata just stood away from her two "sisters", trying not to get involved and much on her cookie.
But as the Dazzlings was experiencing much stress and turmoil on their side of the room, the CMC sat quietly on their side and developing a new perspective. They still suspect some selfishness in their intent, but they no longer feel that they are planing anything malevolent or ill towards anyone. They probably want some respect and everybody from school not giving them a hard time. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom have one quick look towards Scootaloo before she got up on her feet.
"Look!" Scootaloo called out, grabbing all the Dazzling's attentions. "I know this is something that none of us wanted. But why don't we make the most of it. You can still perform at my party and I'll let you sing whatever you want. Deal?"
The Dazzlings think silently for a moment. While they feel more than ever to scrap the whole gig and do something else, they also don't want to look a gift horse in the mouth and refuse the only form of genuine kindness that they have ever gotten. But with so little options, they reluctantly accepts.
After breathing out a massive sigh, Adagio replies: "Fine kid-"
"Scootaloo" Sweetie Belle corrected.
"-... Scootaloo. We'll have it your way. I guess some publicity is still better than no publicity."
"And definitely better than bad publicity" Sonata commented, hoping it would lift the mood.
But before either Adagio or Aria would say "Shut-Up, Sonata!", Applebloom quickly pulls Sonata's hand and whispers to her: "Yeah, I don't think the situation is all that good yet so it's best to stay quiet."
After that, everyone was in silent & mutual agreement. The Dazzlings still get to perform at Scootaloo's party and the CMC no longer feel obliged to kick them out. However, everyone still feel kind of uneasy and the moment still isn't something that any of them had expected. All they can hope for is that everything can get better at the end.
At the end of the day, everyone else left Scootaloo's apartment. The Dazzlings left to go back to their place and Applebloom and Sweetie Belle go the opposite direction. But as Scootaloo and her two aunts are waving goodbye to everyone, Lofty had something to say.
"Well, I don't know what sort of friends that you are making Scootaloo, but that Sonata was a real treat!"
"I'd say" Holiday agreed. "I wish she can come back again and have her taste more of our cooking."
Scootaloo breaths a massive sigh and heads back inside.
